Acidophile Microbiology: From Extreme Environments to Biotechnological Applications

Acidophiles are microorganisms that thrive in acidic environments, and these microorganisms can be found in a wide range of habitats, including acid mine drainage, volcanic hot springs, and acidic soils. Despite the extreme conditions they live in, acidophiles have adapted unique biochemical pathways and mechanisms to survive and thrive in such harsh environments. This Research Topic aims to bring together recent advances in the field of acidophile microbiology, from fundamental research on microbial diversity, physiology, and ecology in extreme environments to biotechnological applications, including bioleaching and bioremediation.

This Research Topic welcomes Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Opinion, Methods and Perspective articles on the following themes:

• Exploration and characterization of acidophilic microorganisms from extreme environments;

• Understanding the molecular and biochemical mechanisms of acidophile adaptation;

• Investigating the ecological roles of acidophiles in extreme environments, including interactions with other microorganisms, biogeochemical cycles, and ecosystem functions;

• Potential applications of acidophilic microorganisms in biotechnological processes, including bioleaching of minerals, bioremediation of acid-contaminated environments.

Overall, this Research Topic will provide a comprehensive overview of acidophile microbiology, from basic research to applied biotechnology, and highlight the potential of acidophilic microorganisms as valuable resources for environmental and industrial applications.