A holistic perspective on the efficiency of microbial enzymes in bioremediation process: Mechanism and challenges: A review

Abstract

Industrial activities, pharmaceutical contaminants, excessive agricultural inputs, and improper waste disposal have contributed to the widespread pollution of soil and water. Traditional remediation techniques, while effective, often generate secondary waste and are economically unfeasible. In contrast, microbial bioremediation offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative by utilizing microorganisms and their enzymatic systems to degrade and detoxify pollutants. This review investigates the potential of microbial enzymes in remediation strategies for removing heavy metals and pharmaceutical contaminants from polluted environments. It analyzes the fundamental mechanisms by which microorganisms sequester and degrade these pollutants, emphasizing the enzymatic processes that facilitate their breakdown. Furthermore, it explores key microbial factors influencing bioremediation efficiency, including microbial diversity and environmental conditions. Additionally, it examines the challenges associated with scaling these bioremediation strategies for global environmental applications and provides insights for future research and implementation.