Biodegradation of Pharmaceutical Pollutants Using Fungal Enzyme

Abstract

Abstract: The potential of filamentous fungi and their enzymes are investigated for bioremediating pharmaceutical pollutants from wastewater thereby addressing the growing concern of emerging pollutants in water resources. Among the various microorganisms, the current abstract discusses the role of fungi in degrading antibiotics and persistent pharmaceutical compounds. These fungi allow the biodegradation via the formation of highly oxidative hydroxyl radicals. It summarizes the role of both intra (cytochrome P450) and extracellular (laccase) enzyme systems for the bioremediation of emerging clinical pollutants. It emphasizes the importance of both biosorption and biodegradation for effective pollutant removal by breaking down pharmaceuticals (e.g. antibiotics) and other hazardous compounds (e.g. endocrine-disrupting compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Although the enzymes CYP450 are not directly engaged, their metabolic pathways execute mechanisms such as oxidation, the formation of reactive intermediates, and chemical modification, all of which result in the degradation of clinical pollutants. Amongst all enzyme systems in the case of laccase which oxidise a wide spectrum of substrates, converts them to free radicals. Additionally, the role of recombinant enzyme production and transgenic strains for pollutant degradation has also been elaborated. These considerations emphasise the need for ongoing research and biotechnological advancements to address the growing concern of pharmaceuticals and personal care product pollutants in water systems.