Bioelimination of trinitroaromatic compounds: immobilization versus mineralization

Electron deficiency of trinitroaromatic compounds favors gratuitous reduction of nitro groups or unique ring hydrogenation. From nitro-group reduction of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), some highly reactive products are generated that are subject to further transformation or interaction with diverse electrophiles. Up to now, only initial ring hydrogenation of picric acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol) opens perspectives of complete degradation. This review focuses on recent findings that may be relevant for bioremediation or complete degradation of TNT or picric acid.