(14C)acetate assimilation by a type I obligate methylotroph, Methylococcus capsulatus.

Methanol and formate oxidation supported the assimilation of 14C]acetate by cell suspensions of Methylococcus capsulatus; oxidation of other primary alcohols, except ethanol, did not. The extent of 1-14C]acetate assimilation supported by methanol oxidation was decreased in the presence of primary alcohols, except ethanol. Potassium cyanide (0.33 mM) completely inhibited the oxidation of formate and its stimulation of 1-14C]acetate assimilation. The amount of 1-14C]acetate assimilation supported by methanol oxidation was significantly inhibited by cyanide.