Cell Surface Differences within the Genus Methanosarcina Shape Interactions with the Extracellular Environment
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Methanosarcina are metabolically versatile methanogenic archaea that can perform extracellular electron transfer (EET), with important ecological and biotechnological implications. These archaea are broadly classified into two types (Type I and Type II) based on their energy metabolism and are also differ in their aggregation-disaggregation behavior, cell surface properties, and electron transfer strategies.
Type I Methanosarcina typically form large multicellular aggregates within a methanochondroitin extracellular matrix, thrive in organic-rich environments, play a key role in anaerobic digestion during wastewater treatment and can perform EET. However, their mechanism of EET remains unresolved. In contrast, Type II Methanosarcina rely on multiheme c-type cytochromes for EET and are better adapted to low-organic, mineral-rich environments such as deep-sea sediments and aquifers, where they contribute to methane emissions.
Despite their significance, the molecular mechanisms behind EET in Methanosarcina — particularly for Type I—remain poorly understood. This review highlights what is known and what is unknown regarding the surface biology of Methanosarcina , their EET strategies, and biogeochemical and industrial roles, emphasizing the need for further research to unlock their full potential in sustainable methane management.
