Metabolites Flashcards
Metabolites
Currency of cell; used to build parts of cell (macromolecules); product of metabolism.
(Labile Pool DOC - osmolytes & monomers)
How are Metabolites measured?
- Filter & acidify sample.
- Sampled loaded into Column where metabolites and salt bind to negatively charged particle.
- Change pH by adding base to separate organic molecules from salt.
- Collect and perform Liquid Chromatography
- Electrospray & LC-MS sample
Transporters
Used to identify what is in a bacteria’s environment; different in each bacteria for different sugars/amino acids
How do Enzymes work to break down different macromolecules?
Enzymes of bacteria cell surface breakers macromolecules into smaller chains. The Transport transports little chains of macromolecules to plasma space where they’re broken down into monomers so they can be consumed/used in cell.
Phycosphere
Region surrounding phytoplankton cell that’s enriched in organic substrate
How do Bacteria interact with Phycosphere?
The Phycosphere provides food for bacteria. (Phytoplankton excrete metabolites)
Relationship between Phytoplankton & Bacteria
Phytoplankton make DOC, POC, and complex algal polysaccharides for Bacteria.
Bacteria is recycling them back to micronutrients, remineralized macronutrients, and vitamins for phytoplankton to use.
Importance of Osmolytes
Osmolytes are produced to balance/keep salt outside of the cell by “taking place” of salt. (Protein does not get along with salt)
They can also be used for regulating cold temperatures, pH fluctuation, and concentration of heavy metals/toxins.
Why do Phytoplankton/Plants need Nitrates and Phosphates?
They use the nutrients of Nitrates and Phosphates as their source of Nitrogen and Phosphorus. This promotes biological growth.
Importance of Chitin
Important source of Carbon and Nitrogen; Chitin Degradation broken down by bacteria is a key role in nutrients cycling.
