Microbial Inorganic Carbon Fixation

Abstract

AbstractCarbon dioxide fixation is the biological process through which carbon dioxide is converted to organic compounds. Organisms that fix carbon dioxide provide the organic carbon necessary to support the existence of all heterotrophic life on our planet. This article provides an introduction to the various mechanisms of carbon dioxide fixation utilised by microorganisms. The Calvin–Benson–Bassham cycle is shared among plants, algae and many photo‐ and chemoautotrophic bacteria, and is probably the most well known carbon dioxide‐fixation pathway. However, a number of other pathways exist that are unique to the microbial world and the diverse chemistry and strategies they utilise are fascinating. Among the six carbon‐fixing pathways known at present, three pathways harbouring novel enzymes have just been established in the past few years. With the number and diversity of microorganisms still expanding, the possibilities are high that further novel pathways will be identified in the near future.Key Concepts:Carbon dioxide fixation is the biological process through which carbon dioxide is converted to organic compounds.Organisms that fix carbon dioxide provide the organic carbon necessary to support the existence of all heterotrophic life on our planet.In addition to the Calvin–Benson–Bassham cycle, which is also found in plants and microorganisms harbour a number of unique carbon dioxide‐fixing pathways.