Researchers find molecular off switch for nitrogen fixation in methanogen microbes
A collaborative team from across the United States led by the University of Arkansas discovered a regulatory mechanism that stops nitrogen fixation in methane-producing microbes.
New protein supercomplex identified
Scientists used high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy to observe how nitrogenase binds with regulatory proteins. This interaction creates a large inactive complex known as a protein supercomplex. The structure effectively prevents the enzyme from functioning under specific conditions.
Energy signals control activity
Signals reflecting cellular energy and nutrient levels can break apart this inactive complex. Once separated, the enzyme regains its ability to convert nitrogen gas into ammonia. This process allows nitrogen fixation to resume when resources become available again.
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