Discovery of Haloquadratum walsbyi Microbial Rhodopsin (HwMR) as a Magnesium Ion Sensor and Transporter

Published: May 20, 2025 09:49

Save

The new-type microbial rhodopsin, Haloquadratum walsbyi microbial rhodopsin (HwMR), was identified from the halophilic archaeon Haloquadratum walsbyi. Recent studies have found that this protein can sense the concentration of magnesium ions in the environment and exhibit characteristic changes in absorption spectra and photocycle kinetics. X-ray crystal structure analysis revealed that the wild-type HwMR has two magnesium ion-binding sites, D84 and T216, while the D84N mutant loses this property. Cell experiments have confirmed that HwMR is a light-driven inward transporter of magnesium ions, and researchers have proposed a sequential model for magnesium ion transport based on this finding. This discovery provides a new perspective for understanding the ion regulation mechanisms of microorganisms in extreme environments.

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM‘s internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

For any inquiries or to learn more information, please contact: lemonzhao@smm.cn

For more information on how to access our research reports, please contact:service.en@smm.cn

Related News

21 hours ago

[SMM Analysis] Stainless Steel Social Inventory Saw a Slight Buildup, While High Supply Coupled with Cautious Downstream Demand Constrained Destocking

21 hours ago

22 hours ago

Xinghe Molybdenum Has Abundant Resources and Will Commence Construction in H2 2026

Yankuang Energy stated at its 2025 annual results briefing that, according to the feasibility study report prepared by Changsha Engineering & Research Institute Ltd. of Nonferrous Metallurgy, Xinghe Molybdenum (Caosiyao Molybdenum Mine) is located in Xinghe County, Ulanqab City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, and has molybdenum ore resources of 1.04 billion mt, metal content of 1.089 million mt, an average grade of 0.105%, and associated metals including tungsten and zinc. The designed capacity is 16.5 million mt/year of raw ore, and annual molybdenum concentrate production will reach 30,800 mt/year upon reaching full production. In February 2026, it was issued the electronic certificate for a mining license with an annual mining scale of 16.5 million mt, and construction is expected to commence in H2 2026, with a construction period of 1.5-2 years.

22 hours ago

Angang Steel's April ferromolybdenum tender price was 282,800/mt

[Molybdenum-Iron Steel Tender Information] SMM, April 3: Angang Steel's latest ferromolybdenum tender price was 282,800 yuan/mt (acceptance bill), with a quantity of 210 mt and a delivery date of April 30.

22 hours ago