A comprehensive review on quinolone contamination in environments: current research progress.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Environmental Chemistry
• Ecotoxicology

Background:

• Quinolone (QN) antibiotics are broad-spectrum antimicrobials extensively used in human and veterinary medicine.
• Their incomplete metabolism leads to widespread environmental contamination in water, soil, and sediment.
• QN residues pose significant ecotoxicological threats and contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status of Quinolone antibiotic pollution globally.
• To assess the biological toxicity and ecotoxicity of QNs and their metabolites.
• To evaluate existing and potential methods for QN removal from the environment.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies on Quinolone antibiotic pollution.
• Analysis of data on ecotoxicity and biological effects of QNs.
• Evaluation of various removal techniques including adsorption, chemical oxidation, photocatalysis, and microbial degradation.

Main Results:

• Quinolone antibiotics and their metabolites are prevalent environmental contaminants.
• Significant ecotoxicity associated with QN exposure was documented.
• Current removal methods are often incomplete and influenced by experimental conditions.

Conclusions:

• Continuous emission of Quinolone antibiotics poses a substantial environmental risk.
• The spread of antimicrobial resistance due to QN pollution is a critical concern.
• Developing integrated and efficient removal strategies is essential for mitigating QN environmental impact.