Role of copper and iron in methane oxidation and bacterial biopolymer accumulation

The aim of this review was to elucidate the role of copper and iron in regulating methane (CH4) oxidation and subsequent biopolymer (i.e. polyhydroxyalkanoate [PHA]) accumulation in methanotrophic bacteria. Specifically, the review emphasizes the ―copper switch mechanism‖ which alters CH4 oxidizing enzyme activities, i.e. soluble- and particulate-methane monooxygenase, in type II methanotrophic bacteria. Both copper and iron are essential nutrients, and reports demonstrate that addition of either can improve PHA accumulation. However, based on analyses of available data, a major knowledge gap regarding a clear understanding of the interactive effects in regulating methane monooxygenase enzyme activities/gene expressions was identified in this review.