How our 2-billion-year-old microbial ancestors made energy
https://cosmosmagazine.com/science/biology/archaea-hydrogen-energy/
New research reveals how our 2-billion-year-old microbial ancestors, archaea, used hydrogen gas to produce energy, a discovery that could revolutionize green energy production. Archaea, which thrive in extreme conditions, have unique enzymes called [FeFe]-hydrogenases that efficiently use hydrogen. This finding suggests new ways to produce hydrogen industrially, inspired by these ancient microbes. The research, led by Bob Leung from Monash University, highlights the potential of biological catalysts over precious chemical catalysts currently used in the industry. Understanding how archaea managed hydrogen use could bring us closer to sustainable energy solutions.