The vast majority of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, released in the atmosphere is produced by a group of microorganisms called methanogens. Close relatives of methanogens, called anaerobic methane oxidizing archaea (referred to as ANME henceforth), consume methane through a reversal of the canonical methanogenesis pathway. As such, ANME consume a significant fraction of methane produced by methanogens, especially in marine environments. Unlike methanogens, ANME have been recalcitrant to routine laboratory cultivation techniques so far. Therefore, biochemical characterization of anaerobic methane oxidation in these keystone microorganisms has proven to be extremely challenging. To overcome this challenge, my research group is developing a closely related methanogen, Methanosarcina acetivorans, as a genetic chassis to study genes from ANME with the ultimate goal to build a synthetic ANME de novo. Metagenome-assembled genomes of ANME are enriched in large multi-heme c-type cytochromes (referred to as MHCs henceforth) that are notably absent in closely related methanogens like M. acetivorans. These MHCs are hypothesized to facilitate anaerobic methane oxidation by efficient extracellular transfer of electrons thus generated. Ultimately, these MHCs transfer the electrons to a partner bacterium or to redox-active Fe, Mn containing minerals. In this talk, I will discuss the findings from two recent studies in my group to: a) identify and characterize the c-type cytochrome maturation machinery in methanogenic archaea and b) conduct heterologous expression and biochemical characterization of ANME MHCs.

Just when you think you have everything figured out, BAM! COVID-19! Work-life balance is already a very tricky (and some would argue unattainable) goal. However, trying to achieve work-life balance in the middle of a global pandemic seems absolutely insurmountable. This presentation will try to breathe some socially-distanced fresh air towards the notion that hope is not lost and will encourage you to celebrate small victories. Although pandemic life is challenging as we attempt to continue science full-time from home and navigate many new uncertainties, prioritizing responsibilities and setting up transparent expectations will help facilitate balance. Hear the personal experiences of Dr. Bridget Ford, an Assistant Professor at UIW and UT Health San Antonio GSBS alum, on how to enact these among other approaches in the pursuit of balancing work and life during a global pandemic.