Redox control of magnetosome biomineralization

Magnetotactic bacteria can orientate in the Earth’s magnetic field to search for their preferred microoxic environments, which is achieved by their unique organelles, the magnetosomes. Magnetosomes contain nanometer-sized crystal particles of magnetic iron minerals, which are only synthesized in low-oxygen environments. Although the mechanism of aerobic repression for magnetosome biomineralization has not yet fully understood, a series of studies have verified that redox modulation is pivotal for magnetosome formation. In this review, these advances in redox modulation for magnetosome biosynthesis are highlighted, mainly including respiration pathway enzymes, specific magnetosome-associated redox proteins, and oxygen- or nitrate-sensing regulators. Furthermore, their relationship during magnetosome biomineralization is discussed to give insight into redox control and biomineralization and inspire potential solutions for the application of respiration pathways to improve the yields of magnetosome.