Srinagar, June 2: Scientists at Rice University have identified a unique bacteria capable of generating electricity, a discovery that could transform future innovations in biotechnology and the energy sector. Unlike most organisms that rely on oxygen, this bacteria produces energy by releasing electrons into its environment—a natural process that effectively allows it to “breathe electricity.”
According to reports to understand this process better, the Rice team collaborated with researchers at the University of California, San Diego. They used advanced computer models to simulate bacterial life in oxygen-free environments. The results showed that the bacteria could continue to grow and generate electricity when placed on conductive surfaces. These findings were then confirmed in real laboratory conditions, where the bacteria successfully survived and discharged electricity in a controlled setting.
While most living organisms rely on oxygen to metabolise food and release energy, the researchers found that some bacteria use naturally occurring compounds called naphthoquinones to transfer electrons to external surfaces.
The process is called extracellular respiration, which mimics how batteries discharge electric current, thereby allowing bacteria to thrive without oxygen, according to the study findings, published in the journal Cell.
According to Biki Bapi Kundu, a Rice doctoral student, this newly discovered mechanism of respiration is a simple and ingenious way to get the job done. Naphthoquinones act like molecular couriers, carrying electrons out of the cell so the bacteria can break down food and generate energy.
This research changes the understanding of how life can exist in harsh environments and offers promising solutions to some of today’s biggest technological challenges. With further research, these electricity-breathing bacteria could become key players in the development of cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable systems around the world.
