Metabolic Diversity: Fermentation and Energy Production

This lecture covers the metabolic diversity in microorganisms, focusing on the pathways involved in fermentation, substrate-level phosphorylation, and energy production. It discusses the production of energy-rich compounds, such as acetyl-CoA and propionate, through processes like substrate-level phosphorylation. The lecture also explores the different types of fermentations, including lactic acid fermentation and butyrate fermentation, highlighting the key enzymes and compounds involved. Additionally, it delves into the methane cycling and acetogenesis processes, emphasizing the role of specific bacteria like Zymomonas mobilis and Clostridium thermocellum.