Researchers from the University of California , Berkeley , have used inorganic semiconductors to help non - photosynthetic bacteria synthesise energy from carbon dioxide . Photosynthesis in plants provides energy for most of life on earth , but key component chlorophyll is relatively inefficient . Researchers have now used naturally - occurring bacterium Moorella ##e to work with the semiconductors to more efficiently produce acetic acid . The acetic acid can then be upgraded for use in food , pharmaceuticals and some fuels , through genetically - engineered bacteria .
Scientists from the University of California, Berkeley, have used inorganic semiconductors to help non-photosynthetic bacteria synthesise chemicals from carbon dioxide. Photosynthesis in plants provides energy for most of life on earth, but key component chlorophyll is relatively inefficient. Researchers have now taught naturally-occurring bacterium Moorella thermoacetica to work with the semiconductors to more efficiently produce acetic acid. The acetic acid can then be upgraded for use in polymers, pharmaceuticals and some fuels, through genetically-engineered bacteria.