Enzymes and Metabolisms Driving the Global Carbon Cycle

Microorganisms metabolize and grow on a variety of one-carbon compounds including carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, formate, methanol, methane, methylamines and methylthiols. The microbial metabolisms of one-carbon (C₁) compounds are major metabolisms sustaining the global carbon cycle, which is important in marine and terrestrial environments. The microorganisms and their associated enzymes involved in the global carbon cycle attract both fundamental and applied interests due to the unique structure and function of key C₁ metabolic enzymes and the fact that certain substrates, products, or intermediates of C₁ metabolic pathways, such as carbon dioxide and methane, are potent green-house gasses. In addition, C₁ metabolisms such as syngas fermentations are promising biological processes for biotechnological applications. The 2022 C₁ Gordon Research Conference will highlight the most recent research on the aspects of microbial one-carbon metabolism and the enzymes involved in the global carbon cycle, including microbial CO₂ fixation, photorespiration, chemolithoautotrophy, acetogenesis, methanogenesis, aerobic and anaerobic methane oxidation, microbial diversity, evolution in ecosystems and synthetic systems. Innovative applications of C₁ metabolism in industrial processes will also be presented.

As in previous editions of this long-running meeting, the 2022 conference, with its associated GRS, will bring together early career and senior researchers and academics from the C₁ research community. Investigators new to the field are encouraged to apply. The GRC format, with extensive discussions, interactive poster sessions, and informal gatherings in the afternoons and evenings, will provide an ideal setting for investigators from different fields and generations, to exchange ideas, brainstorm, and discuss opportunities for collaboration.