The Biochemistry and Genetics of Microbial Perchlorate Reduction

The identification and analysis of the genes encoding perchlorate reductase and chlorite dismutase has provided not only a building block for pathway understanding, but has also provided a tool for bioremediative and phylogenetic studies. On-going genome sequencing will further facilitate transcriptional profiling under perchlorate-reducing conditions via microarray analyses. This analysis will give a more inclusive look into transcriptional expression patterns associated with the perchlorate metabolism. While further advancements in the genetic analysis of perchlorate-reducing bacteria continue, the recent development of a genetic system in D. aromatica will provide an invaluable tool for corroborating microarray results and solidifying hypotheses regarding microbial perchlorate metabolism.