Abstract
A bacterial model system (Pseudomonas putida DSM 50026) was used in this research to assess toxicity of the environmentally relevant concentrations of mercury species (MeHg and Hg(II)) that represent important pollutants of aquatic ecosystems at sites of industrial or mining activities. In addition to direct monitoring of bacterial growth, we also analyzed fatty acid profiles of exposed and non-exposed cultures to determine possible toxic effects manifested on membrane level. The results showed that exposure of P. putida to Hg(II) in concentrations of 0.2–200 µg/L did not have any significant effects on growth nor fatty acid composition of exposed bacterial culture. On the other hand, when bacteria were exposed to up to 1600-times lower concentrations of MeHg (0.12–12.5 µg/L), growth inhibition as well as significant changes in fatty acid composition were detected. Observed adaptive membrane changes due to MeHg exposure were similar to those associated with responses to organic solvents and some other membrane-disrupting compounds.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
