Microbial Alchemy: The Creation of Toxic Methylmercury

Researchers have discovered that the molecule S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) is a key player in the microbial production of methylmercury, a highly toxic form of mercury that accumulates in fish and poses significant health risks. Using advanced X-ray spectroscopy at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, the study identified SAM as the methyl donor in the conversion process, challenging previous assumptions. This finding could inform new strategies for environmental remediation of methylmercury contamination.