Microbial Degradation of 9,10-Phenanthrenedione

Abstract

Pseudomonas sp. strain PD1 capable of utilizing 9,10-phenanthrenedione as the sole source of carbon and energy for growth was isolated from a bacterial community previously enriched from a highly PAH-contaminated soil. Diphenic acid and phthalic acid were identified as major metabolic intermediates. Phthalic acid accumulates during 9,10-phenanthrenedione degradation and possibly acts as a toxicant to the bacteria when a defined concentration is exceeded.

Keywords:

• biodegradation
• metabolites
• PAH-diketones
• 9,10-phenanthrenedione
• Pseudomonas