Recent Developments in Microbe-Plant-Based Bioremediation for Tackling Heavy Metal-Polluted Soils

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Microbiology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Soil contamination with heavy metals (HMs) is a significant global environmental issue.
• Industrialization and mining activities exacerbate HM pollution, damaging ecosystems.
• Traditional physicochemical remediation methods are costly and environmentally unfriendly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review novel aspects of heavy metal bioremediation in soils.
• To critically examine the bioremediation potential of microorganisms and plants.
• To discuss mechanisms, influencing factors, challenges, and future prospects of bioremediation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on bioremediation techniques for heavy metal-polluted soils.
• Analysis of microbial (bacteria, fungi) and plant-associated bioremediation strategies.
• Examination of detoxification mechanisms and factors affecting efficiency.

Main Results:

• Microbes like *Pseudomonas*, *Bacillus*, and *Aspergillus* exhibit high metal tolerance and bioremediation potential.
• Bioremediation efficiency can reach up to 98% using microbes alone or in association with plants like *Trifolium repens* and *Helianthus annuus*.
• Microbial detoxification mechanisms are influenced by cellular structure, surface properties, and environmental conditions.

Conclusions:

• Bioremediation presents a cost-effective and environmentally sound alternative to traditional methods for heavy metal soil cleanup.
• Understanding microbial-plant interactions and detoxification mechanisms is crucial for optimizing bioremediation strategies.
• Further research into challenges and future prospects will enhance the application of bioremediation for contaminated soils.