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Microbes Transform Gold in Spruce Needles, Study Reveals

10/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Finnish researchers found gold nanoparticles in Norway spruce needles linked to specific bacteria, suggesting microbes may transform soluble gold into solid nanoparticles.
The study analyzed 138 needle samples from 23 trees near the Kittilä gold mine and found sequencing linked gold to P3OB-42 and Cutibacterium.
Findings may enable eco-friendly mineral exploration and metal extraction from contaminated waters via microbes.

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Story summary

Finnish researchers found gold nanoparticles in Norway spruce needles linked to specific bacteria, suggesting microbes may transform soluble gold into solid nanoparticles.
The study analyzed 138 needle samples from 23 trees near the Kittilä gold mine and found sequencing linked gold to P3OB-42 and Cutibacterium.
Findings may enable eco-friendly mineral exploration and metal extraction from contaminated waters via microbes.