Organisms that thrive in extremes of temperatures and acidity are the interest of biologist Jonathan Trent. These organisms, called thermophilic (heat-loving) archea, look like bacteria but are not. They live in volcanic hot springs and certain areas within the Earth's crust, where conditions are reminiscent of the primitive Earth. In fact, it is believed that these organisms are similar to some of the earliest life on this planet. The proteins inside thermophilic archea have adapted to the harsh environment they call home. Argonne scientists are studying these proteins to discover new industrial and biotechnological processes and to identify uses in forensic medicine and cancer therapies.

Back to article