Research progress in glycogen particles in anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria

Abstract:

Anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AnAOB) are a newly developed taxonomic group. Due to the slow growth and difficult cultivation, pure cultures of AnAOB have not yet been obtained. AnAOB exhibit unique cellular structures and functions compared with the well-known bacterial groups. Although being chemolithotrophic bacteria, AnAOB often contain cellular inclusions, e.g., glycogen particles. Studying the characteristics and dynamics of glycogen particles will deepen our understanding into AnAOB. According to relevant literature and our previous work, we systematically summarized the properties of the structure, metabolism, and function of the glycogen particles in AnAOB. The glycogen particles in AnAOB exist in the riboplasm and are in dynamic balance between synthesis via various pathways and degradation at multiple sites. Additionally, glycogen particles can serve as energy and carbon sources and provide stress protection, which are of great significance for the survival of AnAOB under adverse conditions. This review is expected to underpin the further investigation and application of AnAOB.