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Bioprospecting of Extremophilic Microorganisms to Address Environmental Pollution

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Published on: December 30, 2021

Metal and metal(loids) removal efficiency using genetically engineered microbes: Applications and challenges.

Pooja Sharma¹, Ranjna Sirohi², Yen Wah Tong³

¹Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow 226029, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Journal of Hazardous Materials

|September 8, 2021

Summary

Genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) offer a safe and cost-effective solution for removing toxic metals and metalloids from the environment. These microorganisms can break down persistent pollutants, protecting ecosystems and human health.

Keywords:

Hazardous pollutants Microbial degradation Molecular techniques Remediation pathways Signaling molecule

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Metal-Limited Growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae for Characterization of Metal-Responsive Genes and Metal Acquisition from Host Ligands

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Published on: March 4, 2020

Area of Science:

Environmental Science
Biotechnology
Microbiology

Background:

Environmental pollution by metals and metalloids poses significant risks to ecosystems and human health.
These pollutants are persistent, non-degradable, and bioaccumulate in food chains.
Current remediation strategies often face limitations in efficiency and environmental impact.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the application of genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) for environmental metal and metalloid remediation.
To highlight the potential of GEMs in producing metabolites and enzymes for pollutant detoxification.
To discuss the role of GEMs in breaking down persistent environmental contaminants.

Main Methods:

Utilizing recombinant DNA and RNA technologies to develop GEMs (fungi, algae, bacteria).
Investigating the capacity of GEMs to tolerate metal stress and detoxify pollutants.
Analyzing genetic expression of GEMs during interaction with metals and metalloids.

Main Results:

GEMs demonstrate significant potential in removing toxic metals and metalloids from polluted environments.
Engineered microorganisms can produce enzymes and metabolites crucial for pollutant breakdown.
GEMs offer a sustainable and economically viable approach to bioremediation.

Conclusions:

GEMs represent a promising advanced tool for environmental cleanup of metal and metalloid pollution.
Further research into GEMs can lead to innovative solutions for persistent pollutant management.
The use of GEMs contributes to environmental protection and safeguarding public health.