Minneapolis -- U.S. scientists studying bacteria capable of generating electricity have found riboflavin is responsible for much of the energy produced by the organisms.

The researchers at the University of Minnesota focused on the bacterium Shewanella, which is commonly found in water and soil and which can convert simple organic compounds into electricity.

"This is very exciting because it solves a fundamental biological puzzle," said Daniel Bond and Jeffrey Gralnick, who led the research. "Scientists have known for years that Shewanella produce electricity. Now we know how they do it."

The discovery, the scientists said, means Shewanella can produce more power simply by increasing riboflavin, or vitamin B-2, levels. Also, the finding might lead to multiple possibilities for innovations in renewable energy and environmental clean-up.

The research appeared in the March 3 issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.