Electroautotrophy Archives

Summary of different extracellular electron transfer (EET) pathways. While it is common to classify EET based on the nature and function of the mediators, here the emphasis is on the means of electron transport. (A) Electrons are transported between cells via direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) through (1) direct contact via conductive pili and/or nanowires, (2) conductive particles smaller than the cells (e.g., magnetite), and (3) conductive particles larger than the cells (e.g., activated carbon). (B) Electrons are exported from cells to the solid surface via outward EET through (1), (4) direct contact via redox-active proteins, (5) diffusive soluble electron shuttles, and (6) redox mediators or enzymes. (C) Electrons are taken up by cells from the solid surface via inward EET or extracellular electron uptake (EEU) through (1), (4)–(6). Asterisks denote that not the exact same mechanism is employed by outward EET and inward EET when redox-active proteins are involved. -- mLife

Biophysics, Biosignatures & Paleobiology, Extremeophiles and Extreme Environments, Habitable Zones, Magnetic Fields, Electromagnetism, bioelectricity,, Microbiology & Virology, Origin & Evolution of Life, Status Report

Current Understanding Of Electroautotrophy And Its Relevance In Astrobiology-related Research

by Keith CowingOctober 28, 2025October 28, 2025

Electroautotrophy—the use of extracellular electrons as the primary energy source for autotrophic metabolism—remains understudied compared to photoautotrophy and chemoautotrophy.

Electroautotrophy

Current Understanding Of Electroautotrophy And Its Relevance In Astrobiology-related Research

NASA Planetary Protection Handbook

NASA Scientists Search For Clues About Mars’ Past In Scotland

A Temperate Sub-Neptune Transiting The M4 Dwarf TOI-210 Identified By NIRPS And TESS — Uncovering Hidden M-dwarf Planetary Systems In The Near-infrared

Nonequilibrium Formation of Pyridine (C5H5N) in Interstellar Ice Analogs: Implications for Biorelevant Nitrogen Heterocycles in Ryugu and Bennu

The Abundance And Emission Of PAHs From The Local To Early Universe