Desiccation Response of Geobacter sulfurreducens

Geobacter sulfurreducens is an electricity producing bacteria. It is used in bacterial fuel cells, microbial-based sensors, and catalytic surfaces for bioremediation. Further development of such applications requires stabilization and preservation of the bacteria as thin films on surfaces. This research investigated G.sulfurreducens response to desiccation to explore the feasibility of room temperature preservation. Room temperature preservation involves drying and storing bacteria at ambient conditions. Dried bacteria can be revived on demand by the addition of water.