ISSN:
1572-9729
Keywords:
aliphatic ether
;
biodegradation pathway
;
high molecular weight organic compound
;
internal oxidation
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
,
Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
Notes:
Abstract An aliphatic ether (1-phytanyl-1-octadecanyl-ether) of high molecular weight was used as a sole carbon source in degradation experiments with different aerobic bacteria. The enriched culture B5, obtained from fuel contaminated soils, was able to degrade the substance for more than 90%. A culture of Rhodococcus ruber was similarly effective. Detailed investigation of the metabolites allowed us to characterize an unusual degradation pathway via a mid-chain oxidation mechanism (`internal oxidative pathway'). Obviously, formation of intermediate alkenes mainly at the unbranched side chain was a prerequisite for bacterial degradation of the added substrate. Degradation proceeded – in spite of the usually preferred terminal oxidation – via oxidation of the internal double bond and was followed by an ester cleavage. In turn, a series of alcohols was formed which were subsequently oxidized to the respective carboxylic acids and were further metabolized via the normal β-oxidation pathway.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1008375300828
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