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Li S, Li Z, Wu M, Zhou Y, Tang W, Zhong H. Mercury transformations in algae, plants, and animals: The occurrence, mechanisms, and gaps. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 911:168690. [PMID: 38000748 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a global pollutant showing potent toxicity to living organisms. The transformations of Hg are critical to global Hg cycling and Hg exposure risks, considering Hg mobilities and toxicities vary depending on Hg speciation. Though currently well understood in ambient environments, Hg transformations are inadequately explored in non-microbial organisms. The primary drivers of in vivo Hg transformations are far from clear, and the impacts of these processes on global Hg cycling and Hg associated health risks are not well understood. This hinders a comprehensive understanding of global Hg cycling and the effective mitigation of Hg exposure risks. Here, we focused on Hg transformations in non-microbial organisms, particularly algae, plants, and animals. The process of Hg oxidation/reduction and methylation/demethylation in organisms were reviewed since these processes are the key transformations between the dominant Hg species, i.e., elemental Hg (Hg0), divalent inorganic Hg (IHgII), and methylmercury (MeHg). By summarizing the current knowledge of Hg transformations in organisms, we proposed the potential yet overlooked drivers of these processes, along with potential challenges that hinder a full understanding of in vivo Hg transformations. Knowledge summarized in this review would help achieve a comprehensive understanding of the fate and toxicity of Hg in organisms, providing a basis for predicting Hg cycles and mitigating human exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouying Li
- School of the Environment, Nanjing University, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhuoran Li
- School of the Environment, Nanjing University, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Mengjie Wu
- School of the Environment, Nanjing University, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- School of the Environment, Nanjing University, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wenli Tang
- School of the Environment, Nanjing University, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Huan Zhong
- School of the Environment, Nanjing University, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Kumar A, Ponmani S, Sharma GK, Sangavi P, Chaturvedi AK, Singh A, Malyan SK, Kumar A, Khan SA, Shabnam AA, Jigyasu DK, Gull A. Plummeting toxic contaminates from water through phycoremediation: Mechanism, influencing factors and future outlook to enhance the capacity of living and non-living algae. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 239:117381. [PMID: 37832769 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Freshwater habitats hold a unique role in the survival of all living organisms and supply water for drinking, irrigation, and life support activities. In recent decades, due to anthropogenic activities, deterioration in the water quality has been a long-lasting problem and challenge to the scientific fraternity. Although, these freshwater bodies have a bearable intrinsic capacity for pollution load however alarming increase in pollution limits the intrinsic capacities and requires additional technological interventions. The release of secondary pollutants from conventional interventions further needs revisiting the existing methodologies and asking for green interventions. Green interventions such as phycoremediation are natural, eco-friendly, economic, and energy-efficient alternatives and provide additional benefits such as nutrient recovery, biofuel production, and valuable secondary metabolites from polluted freshwater bodies. This systemic review in a nut-shell comprises the recent research insights on phycoremediation, technological implications, and influencing factors, and further discusses the associated mechanisms of metal ions biosorption by living and non-living algae, its advantages, and limitations. Besides, the article explores the possibility of future research prospects for applicability at a field scale that will help in the efficient utilization of resources, and improved ecological and health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kumar
- School of Hydrology and Water Resources, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China.
| | - S Ponmani
- Mother Terasa College of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Pudukkottai, 622 201, TN, India; Electrodics and Electrocatalysis Division, CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute, Karaikudi, 630003, TN, India.
| | - G K Sharma
- ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Dadwara Kota, 324002, Rajasthan, India.
| | - P Sangavi
- Mother Terasa College of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Pudukkottai, 622 201, TN, India; Electrodics and Electrocatalysis Division, CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute, Karaikudi, 630003, TN, India.
| | - A K Chaturvedi
- Land and Water Management Research Group, Centre for Water Resources Development and Management, Kozhikode, Kerala, India.
| | - A Singh
- Department of Sustainable Energy Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, 208016, India.
| | - S K Malyan
- Department of Environmental Studies, Dyal Singh Evening College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, 110003, India.
| | - A Kumar
- Central Muga Eri Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Jorhat, 785000, India; Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Mysore, Karnataka, 570008, India.
| | - S A Khan
- Division of Environmental Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, 110012, India.
| | - Aftab A Shabnam
- Central Muga Eri Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Jorhat, 785000, India.
| | - D K Jigyasu
- Central Muga Eri Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Jorhat, 785000, India.
| | - A Gull
- Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Mysore, Karnataka, 570008, India.
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Aravind MK, Vignesh NS, Gayathri S, Anjitha N, Athira KM, Gunaseelan S, Arunkumar M, Sanjaykumar A, Karthikumar S, Ganesh Moorthy IM, Ashokkumar B, Pugazhendhi A, Varalakshmi P. Review on rewiring of microalgal strategies for the heavy metal remediation - A metal specific logistics and tactics. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 313:137310. [PMID: 36460155 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Phycoremediation of heavy metals are gaining much attention and becoming an emerging practice for the metal removal in diverse environmental matrices. Still, the physicochemical state of metal polluted sites is often found to be complex and haphazard in nature due to the irregular discharge of wastes, that leads to the lack of conjecture on the application of microalgae for the metal bioremediation. Besides, the foresaid issues might be eventually ended up with futile effect to the polluted site. Therefore, this review is mainly focusing on interpretative assessment on pre-existing microalgal strategies and their merits and demerits for selected metal removal by microalgae through various process such as natural attenuation, nutritional amendment, chemical pretreatment, metal specific modification, immobilization and amalgamation, customization of genetic elements and integrative remediation approaches. Thus, this review provides the ideal knowledge for choosing an efficient metal remediation tactics based on the state of polluted environment. Also, this in-depth description would provide the speculative knowledge of counteractive action required for pass-over the barriers and obstacles during implementation. In addition, the most common metal removal mechanism of microalgae by adsorption was comparatively investigated with different metals through the principal component analysis by grouping various factor such as pH, temperature, initial metal concentration, adsorption capacity, removal efficiency, contact time in different microalgae. Conclusively, the suitable strategies for different heavy metals removal and addressing the complications along with their solution is comprehensively deliberated for metal removal mechanism in microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manikka Kubendran Aravind
- Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nagamalai Sakthi Vignesh
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Santhalingam Gayathri
- Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nair Anjitha
- Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kottilinkal Manniath Athira
- Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sathaiah Gunaseelan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Malaisamy Arunkumar
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India; International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Transcription Regulation Group, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Ashokkumar Sanjaykumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Bannari Amman Institute of Technology, Sathyamangalam, 638401, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sankar Karthikumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Kamaraj College of Engineering and Technology, Virudhunagar, 626001, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Balasubramaniem Ashokkumar
- Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Perumal Varalakshmi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625021, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Bhatt P, Bhandari G, Turco RF, Aminikhoei Z, Bhatt K, Simsek H. Algae in wastewater treatment, mechanism, and application of biomass for production of value-added product. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 309:119688. [PMID: 35793713 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The pollutants can enter water bodies at various point and non-point sources, and wastewater discharge remains a major pathway. Wastewater treatment effectively reduces contaminants, it is expensive and requires an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative approach to reduce treatment costs. Algae have recently emerged as a potentially cost-effective method to remediate toxic pollutants through the mechanism of biosorption, bioaccumulation, and intracellular degradation. Hence, before discharging the wastewater into the natural environment better solutions for environmental resource recovery and sustainable developments can be applied. More importantly, algae are a potential feedstock material for various industrial applications such as biofuel production. Currently, researchers are developing algae as a source for pharmaceuticals, biofuels, food additives, and bio-fertilizers. This review mainly focused on the potential of algae and their specific mechanisms involved in wastewater treatment and energy recovery systems leading to important industrial precursors. The review is highly beneficial for scientists, wastewater treatment plant operators, freshwater managers, and industrial communities to support the sustainable development of natural resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Bhatt
- Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47906, USA.
| | - Geeta Bhandari
- Department of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, 248016, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Ronald F Turco
- Department of Agronomy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47906, USA
| | - Zahra Aminikhoei
- Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Iranian Fisheries Science Research Institute (IFSRI), Offshore Fisheries Research Center, Chabahar, Iran
| | - Kalpana Bhatt
- Department of Food Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Halis Simsek
- Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47906, USA.
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Sinha R, Kumar R, Sharma P, Kant N, Shang J, Aminabhavi TM. Removal of hexavalent chromium via biochar-based adsorbents: State-of-the-art, challenges, and future perspectives. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 317:115356. [PMID: 35623129 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Chromium originates from geogenic and extensive anthropogenic activities and significantly impacts natural ecosystems and human health. Various methods have been applied to remove hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from aquatic environmental matrices, including adsorption via different adsorbents, which is considered to be the most common and low-cost approach. Biochar materials have been recognized as renewable carbon sorbents, pyrolyzed from various biomass at different temperatures under limited/no oxygen conditions for heavy metals remediation. This review summarizes the sources, chemical speciation & toxicity of Cr(VI) ions, and raw and modified biochar applications for Cr(VI) remediation from various contaminated matrices. Mechanistic understanding of Cr(VI) adsorption using different biochar-based materials through batch and saturated column adsorption experiments is documented. Electrostatic interaction and ion exchange dominate the Cr(VI) adsorption onto the biochar materials in acidic pH media. Cr(VI) ions tend to break down as HCrO4-, CrO42-, and Cr2O72- ions in aqueous solutions. At low pH (∼1-4), the availability of HCrO4- ions attributes the electrostatic forces of attraction due to the available functional groups such as -NH4+, -COOH, and -OH2+, which encourages higher adsorption of Cr(VI). Equilibrium isotherm, kinetic, and thermodynamic models help to understand Cr(VI)-biochar interactions and their adsorption mechanism. The adsorption studies of Cr(VI) are summarized through the fixed-bed saturated column experiments and Cr-contaminated real groundwater analysis using biochar-based sorbents for practical applicability. This review highlights the significant challenges in biochar-based material applications as green, renewable, and cost-effective adsorbents for the remediation of Cr(VI). Further recommendations and future scope for the implications of advanced novel biochar materials for Cr(VI) removal and other heavy metals are elegantly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama Sinha
- School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Bihar, 803 116, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Bihar, 803 116, India
| | - Prabhakar Sharma
- School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Bihar, 803 116, India.
| | - Nishi Kant
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, 826 004, Jharkhand, India
| | - Jianying Shang
- Department of Soil and Water Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Tejraj M Aminabhavi
- School of Advanced Sciences, KLE Technological University, Hubballi, 580 031, India; School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Bidholi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248 007, India; Department of Chemistry, Karnatak University, Dharwad, 580 003, India.
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6
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Uttarotai T, Mukjang N, Chaisoung N, Pathom-Aree W, Pekkoh J, Pumas C, Sattayawat P. Putative Protein Discovery from Microalgal Genomes as a Synthetic Biology Protein Library for Heavy Metal Bio-Removal. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11081226. [PMID: 36009852 PMCID: PMC9405338 DOI: 10.3390/biology11081226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Nowadays, heavy metal polluted wastewater is one of the global challenges that leads to an insufficient supply of clean water. Taking advantage of what nature has to offer, several organisms, including microalgae, can natively bioremediate these heavy metals. However, the effectiveness of such processes does not meet expectations, especially with the increasing amount of pollution in today’s world. Therefore, with the goal of creating effective strains, synthetic biology via bioengineering is widely used as a strategy to enhance the heavy metal bio-removing capability, either by directly engineering the native ability of organisms or by transferring the ability to a more suitable host. In order to do so, a list of genes or proteins involved in the processes is crucial for stepwise engineering. Yet, a large amount of information remains to be discovered. In this work, a comprehensive library of putative proteins that are involved in heavy metal bio-removal from microalgae was constructed. Moreover, with the development of machine learning, the 3D structures of these proteins are also predicted, using machine learning-based methods, to aid the use of synthetic biology further. Abstract Synthetic biology is a principle that aims to create new biological systems with particular functions or to redesign the existing ones through bioengineering. Therefore, this principle is often utilized as a tool to put the knowledge learned to practical use in actual fields. However, there is still a great deal of information remaining to be found, and this limits the possible utilization of synthetic biology, particularly on the topic that is the focus of the present work—heavy metal bio-removal. In this work, we aim to construct a comprehensive library of putative proteins that might support heavy metal bio-removal. Hypothetical proteins were discovered from Chlorella and Scenedesmus genomes and extensively annotated. The protein structures of these putative proteins were also modeled through Alphafold2. Although a portion of this workflow has previously been demonstrated to annotate hypothetical proteins from whole genome sequences, the adaptation of such steps is yet to be done for library construction purposes. We also demonstrated further downstream steps that allow a more accurate function prediction of the hypothetical proteins by subjecting the models generated to structure-based annotation. In conclusion, a total of 72 newly discovered putative proteins were annotated with ready-to-use predicted structures available for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toungporn Uttarotai
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Nilita Mukjang
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Natcha Chaisoung
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Wasu Pathom-Aree
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Jeeraporn Pekkoh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Chayakorn Pumas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Pachara Sattayawat
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Center in Bioresources for Agriculture, Industry and Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Correspondence:
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7
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Is Genetic Engineering a Route to Enhance Microalgae-Mediated Bioremediation of Heavy Metal-Containing Effluents? MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27051473. [PMID: 35268582 PMCID: PMC8911655 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Contamination of the biosphere by heavy metals has been rising, due to accelerated anthropogenic activities, and is nowadays, a matter of serious global concern. Removal of such inorganic pollutants from aquatic environments via biological processes has earned great popularity, for its cost-effectiveness and high efficiency, compared to conventional physicochemical methods. Among candidate organisms, microalgae offer several competitive advantages; phycoremediation has even been claimed as the next generation of wastewater treatment technologies. Furthermore, integration of microalgae-mediated wastewater treatment and bioenergy production adds favorably to the economic feasibility of the former process—with energy security coming along with environmental sustainability. However, poor biomass productivity under abiotic stress conditions has hindered the large-scale deployment of microalgae. Recent advances encompassing molecular tools for genome editing, together with the advent of multiomics technologies and computational approaches, have permitted the design of tailor-made microalgal cell factories, which encompass multiple beneficial traits, while circumventing those associated with the bioaccumulation of unfavorable chemicals. Previous studies unfolded several routes through which genetic engineering-mediated improvements appear feasible (encompassing sequestration/uptake capacity and specificity for heavy metals); they can be categorized as metal transportation, chelation, or biotransformation, with regulation of metal- and oxidative stress response, as well as cell surface engineering playing a crucial role therein. This review covers the state-of-the-art metal stress mitigation mechanisms prevalent in microalgae, and discusses putative and tested metabolic engineering approaches, aimed at further improvement of those biological processes. Finally, current research gaps and future prospects arising from use of transgenic microalgae for heavy metal phycoremediation are reviewed.
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Priyadarshanee M, Chatterjee S, Rath S, Dash HR, Das S. Cellular and genetic mechanism of bacterial mercury resistance and their role in biogeochemistry and bioremediation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 423:126985. [PMID: 34464861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic element that occurs at low concentrations in nature. However, various anthropogenic and natural sources contribute around 5000 to 8000 metric tons of Hg per year, rapidly deteriorating the environmental conditions. Mercury-resistant bacteria that possess the mer operon system have the potential for Hg bioremediation through volatilization from the contaminated milieus. Thus, bacterial mer operon plays a crucial role in Hg biogeochemistry and bioremediation by converting both reactive inorganic and organic forms of Hg to relatively inert, volatile, and monoatomic forms. Both the broad-spectrum and narrow-spectrum bacteria harbor many genes of mer operon with their unique definitive functions. The presence of mer genes or proteins can regulate the fate of Hg in the biogeochemical cycle in the environment. The efficiency of Hg transformation depends upon the nature and diversity of mer genes present in mercury-resistant bacteria. Additionally, the bacterial cellular mechanism of Hg resistance involves reduced Hg uptake, extracellular sequestration, and bioaccumulation. The presence of unique physiological properties in a specific group of mercury-resistant bacteria enhances their bioremediation capabilities. Many advanced biotechnological tools also can improve the bioremediation efficiency of mercury-resistant bacteria to achieve Hg bioremediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Priyadarshanee
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela 769 008, Odisha, India
| | - Shreosi Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela 769 008, Odisha, India
| | - Sonalin Rath
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela 769 008, Odisha, India
| | - Hirak R Dash
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela 769 008, Odisha, India
| | - Surajit Das
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela 769 008, Odisha, India.
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9
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Manikandan A, Suresh Babu P, Shyamalagowri S, Kamaraj M, Muthukumaran P, Aravind J. Emerging role of microalgae in heavy metal bioremediation. J Basic Microbiol 2021; 62:330-347. [PMID: 34724223 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202100363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Microalgae have been publicized for their diversified dominance responsiveness and bioaccumulation potential toward pollutants in an ecosystem. Also, algal's incredible capability as biocatalysts in environmental appliances has been well elucidated owing to their robustness and simple nutritional demand. Additionally, microalgae can deliver various collections of bio-based chemical compounds helpful for diversified applications, especially as green alternatives. The environment has been contaminated with various polluting agents; one principal polluting agent is heavy metals which are carcinogenic and show toxicity even in minimal quantity, cause unsatisfactory threats to the environmental ecosystem, including human and animal health. There is a prominent tendency to apply microalgae in the phytoremediation of heavy metals compounds because of its vast benefits, including great accessibility, cost-effective, excellent toxic metal eliminating efficiency, and nontoxic to the ecosystem. This review uncovers the most recent advancements and mechanisms associated with the bioremediation process and biosorption interaction of substantial harmful synthetic compounds processing microalgae species. Furthermore, future challenges and prospects in the utilization of microalgae in heavy metals bioremediation are also explored. The current review aims to give valuable information to aid the advancement of robust and proficient future microalgae-based heavy metal bioremediation innovations and summarizing a wide range of benefits socioeconomic scope to be employed in heavy metal compound removal in environment system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arumugam Manikandan
- Industrial Biotechnology, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Palanisamy Suresh Babu
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Murugesan Kamaraj
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Peraman Muthukumaran
- Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, India
| | - Jeyaseelan Aravind
- Department of Civil Engineering, Environmental Research, Dhirajlal Gandhi College of Technology, Kamalapuram Sikkanampatty, Omalur, Salem, India
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10
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Zhang X, Guo Y, Liu G, Liu Y, Song M, Shi J, Hu L, Li Y, Yin Y, Cai Y, Jiang G. Dark Reduction of Mercury by Microalgae-Associated Aerobic Bacteria in Marine Environments. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:14258-14268. [PMID: 34585579 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c03608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Redox transformation of mercury (Hg) is critical for Hg exchange at the air-sea interface and it can also affect the methylation of Hg in marine environments. However, the contributions of microalgae and aerobic bacteria in oxic seawater to Hg2+ reduction are largely unknown. Here, we studied the reduction of Hg2+ mediated by microalgae and aerobic bacteria in surface marine water and microalgae cultures under dark and sunlight conditions. The comparable reduction rates of Hg2+ with and without light suggest that dark reduction by biological processes is as important as photochemical reduction in the tested surface marine water and microalgae cultures. The contributions of microalgae, associated free-living aerobic bacteria, and extracellular substances to dark reduction were distinguished and quantified in 7 model microalgae cultures, demonstrating that the associated aerobic bacteria are directly involved in dark Hg2+ reduction. The aerobic bacteria in the microalgae cultures were isolated and a rapid dark reduction of Hg2+ followed by a decrease of Hg0 was observed. The reduction of Hg2+ and re-oxidation of Hg0 were demonstrated in aerobic bacteria Alteromonas spp. using double isotope tracing (199Hg2+ and 201Hg0). These findings highlight the importance of algae-associated aerobic bacteria in Hg transformation in oxic marine water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effect, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yingying Guo
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effect, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Guangliang Liu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, Florida 33199, United States
| | - Yanwei Liu
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effect, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Maoyong Song
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effect, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Jianbo Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Ligang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yanbin Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Yongguang Yin
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effect, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yong Cai
- Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology and Health Effect, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, Florida 33199, United States
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
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11
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Worst EG, Finkler M, Schenkelberger M, Kurt Ö, Helms V, Noireaux V, Ott A. A Methylation-Directed, Synthetic Pap Switch Based on Self-Complementary Regulatory DNA Reconstituted in an All E. coli Cell-Free Expression System. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:2725-2739. [PMID: 34550672 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pyelonephritis-associated pili (pap) enable migration of the uropathogenic Escherichia coli strain (UPEC) through the urinary tract. UPEC can switch between a stable 'ON phase' where the corresponding pap genes are expressed and a stable 'OFF phase' where their transcription is repressed. Hereditary DNA methylation of either one of two GATC motives within the regulatory region stabilizes the respective phase over many generations. The underlying molecular mechanism is only partly understood. Previous investigations suggest that in vivo phase-variation stability results from cooperative action of the transcriptional regulators Lrp and PapI. Here, we use an E. coli cell-free expression system to study molecular functions of the pap regulatory region based on a specially designed, synthetic construct flanked by two reporter genes encoding fluorescent proteins for simple readout. On the basis of our observations we suggest that besides Lrp, the conformation of the self-complementary regulatory DNA plays a strong role in the regulation of phase-variation. Our work not only contributes to better understand the phase variation mechanism, but it represents a successful start for mimicking stable, hereditary, and strong expression control based on methylation. The conformation of the regulatory DNA corresponds to a Holliday junction. Gene expression must be expected to respond if opposite arms of the junction are drawn outward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuel G. Worst
- Universität des Saarlandes, Center for Biophysics, Saarbrücken, 66123, Germany
| | - Marc Finkler
- Universität des Saarlandes, Center for Biophysics, Saarbrücken, 66123, Germany
| | - Marc Schenkelberger
- Universität des Saarlandes, Center for Biophysics, Saarbrücken, 66123, Germany
| | - Ömer Kurt
- Universität des Saarlandes, Center for Biophysics, Saarbrücken, 66123, Germany
| | - Volkhard Helms
- Universität des Saarlandes, Center for Bioinformatics, Saarbrücken, 66041, Germany
| | - Vincent Noireaux
- University of Minnesota, School of Physics and Astronomy, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Albrecht Ott
- Universität des Saarlandes, Center for Biophysics, Saarbrücken, 66123, Germany
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12
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Danouche M, El Ghachtouli N, El Arroussi H. Phycoremediation mechanisms of heavy metals using living green microalgae: physicochemical and molecular approaches for enhancing selectivity and removal capacity. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07609. [PMID: 34355100 PMCID: PMC8322293 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heavy metal (HM) contamination of water bodies is a serious global environmental problem. Because they are not biodegradable, they can accumulate in food chains, causing various signs of toxicity to exposed organisms, including humans. Due to its effectiveness, low cost, and ecological aspect, phycoremediation, or the use of microalgae's ecological functions in the treatment of HMs contaminated wastewater, is one of the most recommended processes. This study aims to examine in depth the mechanisms involved in the phycoremediation of HMs by microalgae, it also provides an overview of the prospects for improving the productivity, selectivity, and cost-effectiveness of this bioprocess through physicochemical and genetic engineering applications. Firstly, this review proposes a detailed examination of the biosorption interactions between cell wall functional groups and HMs, and their complexation with extracellular polymeric substances released by microalgae in the extracellular environment under stress conditions. Subsequently, the metal transporters involved in the intracellular bioaccumulation of HMs as well as the main intracellular mechanisms including compartmentalization in cell organelles, enzymatic biotransformation, or photoreduction of HMs were also extensively reviewed. In the last section, future perspectives of physicochemical and genetic approaches that could be used to improve the phytoremediation process in terms of removal efficiency, selectivity for a targeted metal, or reduction of treatment time and cost are discussed, which paves the way for large-scale application of phytoremediation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Danouche
- Green Biotechnology Center, Moroccan Foundation for Advanced Science, Innovation and Research (MAScIR), Rabat, Morocco
- Microbial Biotechnology and Bioactive Molecules Laboratory, Sciences and Technologies Faculty, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Naïma El Ghachtouli
- Microbial Biotechnology and Bioactive Molecules Laboratory, Sciences and Technologies Faculty, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Hicham El Arroussi
- Green Biotechnology Center, Moroccan Foundation for Advanced Science, Innovation and Research (MAScIR), Rabat, Morocco
- AgroBioScience (AgBS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Benguerir, Morocco
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13
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Ubando AT, Africa ADM, Maniquiz-Redillas MC, Culaba AB, Chen WH, Chang JS. Microalgal biosorption of heavy metals: A comprehensive bibliometric review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 402:123431. [PMID: 32745872 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals in the effluents released from industrial establishments pose risks to the environment and society. Prevalent organisms such as microalgae in industrial wastes can thrive in this harmful environment. The connection of the metal-binding proteins of the microalgal cell wall to the metal ions of the heavy metals enables microalgae as an ideal medium for biosorption. The current literature lacks the review of various microalgae used as biosorption of heavy metals from industrial effluents. This work aims to comprehensively review the literature on the use of microalgae as a biosorption for heavy metals. The study summarizes the application of different microalgae for heavy metals removal by identifying the various factors affecting the biosorption performance. Approaches to quantifying the heavy metals concentration are outlined. The methods of microalgae to generate biocompounds to enable biosorption of heavy metals are itemized. The study also aims to identify the materials produced by microalgae to facilitate biosorption. The industrial sectors with the potential benefit from the adoption of microalgal biosorption of heavy metals are recognized. Moreover, the current challenges and future perspectives of microalgal biosorption are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristotle T Ubando
- Mechanical Engineering Department, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, 0922, Manila, Philippines; Center for Engineering and Sustainable Development Research, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, 0922, Manila, Philippines
| | - Aaron Don M Africa
- Center for Engineering and Sustainable Development Research, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, 0922, Manila, Philippines; Electronics and Communication Engineering Department, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, 0922, Manila, Philippines
| | - Marla C Maniquiz-Redillas
- Center for Engineering and Sustainable Development Research, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, 0922, Manila, Philippines; Civil Engineering Department, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, 0922, Manila, Philippines
| | - Alvin B Culaba
- Mechanical Engineering Department, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, 0922, Manila, Philippines; Center for Engineering and Sustainable Development Research, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, 0922, Manila, Philippines
| | - Wei-Hsin Chen
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan; Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan; Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, Taichung 411, Taiwan.
| | - Jo-Shu Chang
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan; Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan
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14
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Ibuot A, Webster RE, Williams LE, Pittman JK. Increased metal tolerance and bioaccumulation of zinc and cadmium in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii expressing a AtHMA4 C-terminal domain protein. Biotechnol Bioeng 2020; 117:2996-3005. [PMID: 32579250 DOI: 10.1002/bit.27476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The use of microalgal biomass for metal pollutant bioremediation might be improved by genetic engineering to modify the selectivity or capacity of metal biosorption. A plant cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) transporter (AtHMA4) was used as a transgene to increase the ability of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to tolerate 0.2 mM Cd and 0.3 mM Zn exposure. The transgenic cells showed increased accumulation and internalization of both metals compared to wild-type. AtHMA4 was expressed either as the full-length (FL) protein or just the C-terminal (CT) tail, which is known to have metal-binding sites. Similar Cd and Zn tolerance and accumulation was observed with expression of either the FL protein or CT domain, suggesting that enhanced metal tolerance was mainly due to increased metal binding rather than metal transport. The effectiveness of the transgenic cells was further examined by immobilization in calcium alginate to generate microalgal beads that could be added to a metal contaminated solution. Immobilization maintained metal tolerance, while AtHMA4-expressing cells in alginate showed a concentration-dependent increase in metal biosorption that was significantly greater than alginate beads composed of wild-type cells. This demonstrates that expressing AtHMA4 FL or CT has great potential as a strategy for bioremediation using microalgal biomass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniefon Ibuot
- Department of Science Technology, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom, Nigeria
| | - Rachel E Webster
- The Manchester Museum, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Jon K Pittman
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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15
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Leong YK, Chang JS. Bioremediation of heavy metals using microalgae: Recent advances and mechanisms. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 303:122886. [PMID: 32046940 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2020.122886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Five heavy metals namely, arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) are carcinogenic and show toxicity even at trace amounts, posing threats to environmental ecology and human health. There is an emerging trend of employing microalgae in phycoremediation of heavy metals, due to several benefits including abundant availability, inexpensive, excellent metal removal efficiency and eco-friendly nature. This review presents the recent advances and mechanisms involved in bioremediation and biosorption of these toxic heavy metals utilizing microalgae. Tolerance and response of different microalgae strains to heavy metals and their bioaccumulation capability with value-added by-products formation as well as utilization of non-living biomass as biosorbents are discussed. Furthermore, challenges and future prospects in bioremediation of heavy metals by microalgae are also explored. This review aims to provide useful insights to help future development of efficient and commercially viable technology for microalgae-based heavy metal bioremediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoong Kit Leong
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jo-Shu Chang
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Center for Nanotechnology, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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16
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Nagarajan D, Lee DJ, Chen CY, Chang JS. Resource recovery from wastewaters using microalgae-based approaches: A circular bioeconomy perspective. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 302:122817. [PMID: 32007309 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2020.122817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The basic concepts of circular bioeconomy are reduce, reuse and recycle. Recovery of recyclable nutrients from secondary sources could play a key role in meeting the increased demands of the growing population. Wastewaters of different origin are rich in energy and nutrients sources that can be recovered and reused in a circular bioeconomy perspective. Microalgae can effectively utilize wastewater nutrients for growth and biomass production. Integration of wastewater treatment and microalgal cultivation improves the environmental impacts of the currently used wastewater treatment methods. This review provides comprehensive information on the potential of using microalgae for the recovery of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and other micronutrients from wastewaters. Major factors influencing large scale microalgal wastewater treatment are discussed and future research perspectives are proposed to foster the future development in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillirani Nagarajan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Duu-Jong Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yen Chen
- University Center for Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jo-Shu Chang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan; Center for Nanotechnology, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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17
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Identification of A Novel Arsenic Resistance Transposon Nested in A Mercury Resistance Transposon of Bacillus sp. MB24. Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7110566. [PMID: 31744069 PMCID: PMC6920998 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7110566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel TnMERI1-like transposon designated as TnMARS1 was identified from mercury resistant Bacilli isolated from Minamata Bay sediment. Two adjacent ars operon-like gene clusters, ars1 and ars2, flanked by a pair of 78-bp inverted repeat sequences, which resulted in a 13.8-kbp transposon-like fragment, were found to be sandwiched between two transposable genes of the TnMERI1-like transposon of a mercury resistant bacterium, Bacillus sp. MB24. The presence of a single transcription start site in each cluster determined by 5′-RACE suggested that both are operons. Quantitative real time RT-PCR showed that the transcription of the arsR genes contained in each operon was induced by arsenite, while arsR2 responded to arsenite more sensitively and strikingly than arsR1 did. Further, arsenic resistance complementary experiments showed that the ars2 operon conferred arsenate and arsenite resistance to an arsB-knocked out Bacillus host, while the ars1 operon only raised arsenite resistance slightly. This transposon nested in TnMARS1 was designated as TnARS1. Multi-gene cluster blast against bacteria and Bacilli whole genome sequence databases suggested that TnMARS1 is the first case of a TnMERI1-like transposon combined with an arsenic resistance transposon. The findings of this study suggested that TnMERI1-like transposons could recruit other mobile elements into its genetic structure, and subsequently cause horizontal dissemination of both mercury and arsenic resistances among Bacilli in Minamata Bay.
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18
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Cheng SY, Show PL, Lau BF, Chang JS, Ling TC. New Prospects for Modified Algae in Heavy Metal Adsorption. Trends Biotechnol 2019; 37:1255-1268. [PMID: 31174882 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Heavy metal pollution is one of the most pervasive environmental problems globally. Novel finely tuned algae have been proposed as a means to improve the efficacy and selectivity of heavy metal biosorption. This article reviews current research on selective algal heavy metal adsorption and critically discusses the performance of novel biosorbents. We emphasize emerging state-of-the-art techniques that customize algae for enhanced performance and selectivity, particularly molecular and chemical extraction techniques as well as nanoparticle (NP) synthesis approaches. The mechanisms and processes for developing novel algal biosorbents are also presented. Finally, we discuss the applications, challenges, and future prospects for modified algae in heavy metal biosorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Yin Cheng
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pau-Loke Show
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Jalan Broga, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
| | - Beng Fye Lau
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jo-Shu Chang
- Research Center for Energy Technology and Strategy, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan; Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Research Center for Circular Economy, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan; College of Engineering, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Tau Chuan Ling
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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19
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Perera IA, Abinandan S, Subashchandrabose SR, Venkateswarlu K, Naidu R, Megharaj M. Advances in the technologies for studying consortia of bacteria and cyanobacteria/microalgae in wastewaters. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2019; 39:709-731. [PMID: 30971144 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2019.1597828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The excessive generation and discharge of wastewaters have been serious concerns worldwide in the recent past. From an environmental friendly perspective, bacteria, cyanobacteria and microalgae, and the consortia have been largely considered for biological treatment of wastewaters. For efficient use of bacteria‒cyanobacteria/microalgae consortia in wastewater treatment, detailed knowledge on their structure, behavior and interaction is essential. In this direction, specific analytical tools and techniques play a significant role in studying these consortia. This review presents a critical perspective on physical, biochemical and molecular techniques such as microscopy, flow cytometry with cell sorting, nanoSIMS and omics approaches used for systematic investigations of the structure and function, particularly nutrient removal potential of bacteria‒cyanobacteria/microalgae consortia. In particular, the use of specific molecular techniques of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics metabolomics and genetic engineering to develop more stable consortia of bacteria and cyanobacteria/microalgae with their improved biotechnological capabilities in wastewater treatment has been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isiri Adhiwarie Perera
- a Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Faculty of Science , The University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Sudharsanam Abinandan
- a Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Faculty of Science , The University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Suresh R Subashchandrabose
- a Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Faculty of Science , The University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia.,b Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of Environment (CRC CARE) , The University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Kadiyala Venkateswarlu
- c Formerly Department of Microbiology , Sri Krishnadevaraya University , Anantapuramu , Andhra Pradesh , India
| | - Ravi Naidu
- a Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Faculty of Science , The University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia.,b Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of Environment (CRC CARE) , The University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Mallavarapu Megharaj
- a Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Faculty of Science , The University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia.,b Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of Environment (CRC CARE) , The University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia
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20
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Yang B, Liu J, Ma X, Guo B, Liu B, Wu T, Jiang Y, Chen F. Genetic engineering of the Calvin cycle toward enhanced photosynthetic CO 2 fixation in microalgae. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2017; 10:229. [PMID: 29034004 PMCID: PMC5629779 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-017-0916-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Photosynthetic microalgae are emerging as potential biomass feedstock for sustainable production of biofuels and value-added bioproducts. CO2 biomitigation through these organisms is considered as an eco-friendly and promising alternative to the existing carbon sequestration methods. Nonetheless, the inherent relatively low photosynthetic capacity of microalgae has hampered the practical use of this strategy for CO2 biomitigation applications. RESULTS Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of improving photosynthetic capacity by the genetic manipulation of the Calvin cycle in the typical green microalga Chlorella vulgaris. Firstly, we fused a plastid transit peptide to upstream of the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and confirmed its expression in the chloroplast of C. vulgaris. Then we introduced the cyanobacterial fructose 1,6-bisphosphate aldolase, guided by the plastid transit peptide, into C. vulgaris chloroplast, leading to enhanced photosynthetic capacity (~ 1.2-fold) and cell growth. Molecular and physiochemical analyses suggested a possible role for aldolase overexpression in promoting the regeneration of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate in the Calvin cycle and energy transfer in photosystems. CONCLUSIONS Our work represents a proof-of-concept effort to enhance photosynthetic capacity by the engineering of the Calvin cycle in green microalgae. Our work also provides insights into targeted genetic engineering toward algal trait improvement for CO2 biomitigation uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yang
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Jin Liu
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- Singapore-Peking University Research Centre for a Sustainable Low-Carbon Future, CREATE Tower, Singapore, 138602 Singapore
| | - Xiaonian Ma
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Bingbing Guo
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Bin Liu
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Tao Wu
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Yue Jiang
- Runke Bioengineering Co., Ltd., Zhangzhou, 363502 China
| | - Feng Chen
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- Singapore-Peking University Research Centre for a Sustainable Low-Carbon Future, CREATE Tower, Singapore, 138602 Singapore
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Yang B, Liu J, Jiang Y, Chen F. Chlorella species as hosts for genetic engineering and expression of heterologous proteins: Progress, challenge and perspective. Biotechnol J 2016; 11:1244-1261. [PMID: 27465356 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201500617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The species of Chlorella represent a highly specialized group of green microalgae that can produce high levels of protein. Many Chlorella strains can grow rapidly and achieve high cell density under controlled conditions and are thus considered to be promising protein sources. Many advances in the genetic engineering of Chlorella have occurred in recent years, with significant developments in successful expression of heterologous proteins for various applications. Nevertheless, a lot of obstacles remain to be addressed, and a sophisticated and stable Chlorella expression system has yet to emerge. This review provides a brief summary of current knowledge on Chlorella and an overview of recent progress in the genetic engineering of Chlorella, and highlights the advances in the development of a genetic toolbox of Chlorella for heterologous protein expression. Research directions to further exploit the Chlorella expression system with respect to both challenges and perspectives are also discussed. This paper serves as a comprehensive literature review for the Chlorella community and will provide valuable insights into future exploration of Chlorella as a promising host for heterologous protein expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yang
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China.,School of Light Industry and Food Sciences, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China. .,Singapore-Peking University Research Centre for a Sustainable Low-Carbon Future, CREATE Tower, Singapore.
| | - Yue Jiang
- Runke Bioengineering Co., Ltd., Zhangzhou, China.
| | - Feng Chen
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Singapore-Peking University Research Centre for a Sustainable Low-Carbon Future, CREATE Tower, Singapore
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23
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Yang B, Liu J, Liu B, Sun P, Ma X, Jiang Y, Wei D, Chen F. Development of a stable genetic system for Chlorella vulgaris—A promising green alga for CO2 biomitigation. ALGAL RES 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Suresh Kumar K, Dahms HU, Won EJ, Lee JS, Shin KH. Microalgae - A promising tool for heavy metal remediation. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2015; 113:329-52. [PMID: 25528489 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2014.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 315] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Biotechnology of microalgae has gained popularity due to the growing need for novel environmental technologies and the development of innovative mass-production. Inexpensive growth requirements (solar light and CO2), and, the advantage of being utilized simultaneously for multiple technologies (e.g. carbon mitigation, biofuel production, and bioremediation) make microalgae suitable candidates for several ecofriendly technologies. Microalgae have developed an extensive spectrum of mechanisms (extracellular and intracellular) to cope with heavy metal toxicity. Their wide-spread occurrence along with their ability to grow and concentrate heavy metals, ascertains their suitability in practical applications of waste-water bioremediation. Heavy metal uptake by microalgae is affirmed to be superior to the prevalent physicochemical processes employed in the removal of toxic heavy metals. In order to evaluate their potential and to fill in the loopholes, it is essential to carry out a critical assessment of the existing microalgal technologies, and realize the need for development of commercially viable technologies involving strategic multidisciplinary approaches. This review summarizes several areas of heavy metal remediation from a microalgal perspective and provides an overview of various practical avenues of this technology. It particularly details heavy metals and microalgae which have been extensively studied, and provides a schematic representation of the mechanisms of heavy metal remediation in microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Suresh Kumar
- Department of Marine Sciences and Convergent Technology, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan 426-791, South Korea
| | - Hans-Uwe Dahms
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Eun-Ji Won
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, South Korea
| | - Jae-Seong Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Hoon Shin
- Department of Marine Sciences and Convergent Technology, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan 426-791, South Korea.
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Schurr R, Kuehnle A. Microalgae Crop Improvement: Tools for Quality Control and Molecular Breeding. Ind Biotechnol (New Rochelle N Y) 2014. [DOI: 10.1089/ind.2013.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Pant D, Singh P. Pollution due to hazardous glass waste. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 21:2414-36. [PMID: 24281678 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-013-2337-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2013] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Pollution resulting from hazardous glass (HG) is widespread across the globe, both in terms of quantity and associated health risks. In waste cathode ray tube (CRT) and fluorescent lamp glass, mercury and lead are present as the major pollutants. The current review discusses the issues related to quantity and associated risk from the pollutant present in HG and proposes the chemical, biological, thermal, hybrid, and nanotechniques for its management. The hybrid is one of the upcoming research models involving the compatible combination of two or more techniques for better and efficient remediation. Thermal mercury desorption starts at 100 °C but for efficient removal, the temperature should be >460 °C. Involvement of solar energy for this purpose makes the research more viable and ecofriendly. Nanoparticles such as Fe, Se, Cu, Ni, Zn, Ag, and WS2 alone or with its formulation can immobilize heavy metals present in HG by involving a redox mechanism. Straight-line equation from year-wise sale can provide future sale data in comparison with lifespan which gives future pollutant approximation. Waste compact fluorescent lamps units projected for the year 2015 is 9,300,000,000 units and can emit nearly 9,300 kg of mercury. On the other hand, CRT monitors have been continuously replaced by more improved versions like liquid crystal display and plasma display panel resulting in the production of more waste. Worldwide CRT production was 83,300,000 units in 2002 and can approximately release 83,000 metric tons of lead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Pant
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, 176215, India,
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Liu J, Chen F. Biology and Industrial Applications of Chlorella: Advances and Prospects. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2014; 153:1-35. [PMID: 25537445 DOI: 10.1007/10_2014_286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Chlorella represents a group of eukaryotic green microalgae that has been receiving increasing scientific and commercial interest. It possesses high photosynthetic ability and is capable of growing robustly under mixotrophic and heterotrophic conditions as well. Chlorella has long been considered as a source of protein and is now industrially produced for human food and animal feed. Chlorella is also rich in oil, an ideal feedstock for biofuels. The exploration of biofuel production by Chlorella is underway. Chlorella has the ability to fix carbon dioxide efficiently and to remove nutrients of nitrogen and phosphorous, making it a good candidate for greenhouse gas biomitigation and wastewater bioremediation. In addition, Chlorella shows potential as an alternative expression host for recombinant protein production, though challenges remain to be addressed. Currently, omics analyses of certain Chlorella strains are being performed, which will help to unravel the biological implications of Chlorella and facilitate the future exploration of industrial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Liu
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China. .,Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Singapore-Peking University Research Centre for a Sustainable Low-Carbon Future, CREATE Tower, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Feng Chen
- Institute for Food and Bioresource Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China. .,Singapore-Peking University Research Centre for a Sustainable Low-Carbon Future, CREATE Tower, Singapore, Singapore.
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Bafana A, Chakrabarti T, Krishnamurthi K. Mercuric reductase activity of multiple heavy metal-resistantLysinibacillus sphaericusG1. J Basic Microbiol 2013; 55:285-92. [DOI: 10.1002/jobm.201300308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amit Bafana
- Environmental Health Division, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI); Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR); Nagpur India
| | - Tapan Chakrabarti
- Environmental Health Division, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI); Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR); Nagpur India
| | - Kannan Krishnamurthi
- Environmental Health Division, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI); Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR); Nagpur India
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Lin HD, Liu BH, Kuo TT, Tsai HC, Feng TY, Huang CC, Chien LF. Knockdown of PsbO leads to induction of HydA and production of photobiological H2 in the green alga Chlorella sp. DT. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2013; 143:154-62. [PMID: 23792754 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2013.05.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2013] [Revised: 05/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Green algae are able to convert solar energy to H2 via the photosynthetic electron transport pathway under certain conditions. Algal hydrogenase (HydA, encoded by HYDA) is in charge of catalyzing the reaction: 2H(+)+2e(-)↔H2 but usually inhibited by O2, a byproduct of photosynthesis. The aim of this study was to knockdown PsbO (encoded by psbO), a subunit concerned with O2 evolution, so that it would lead to HydA induction. The alga, Chlorella sp. DT, was then transformed with short interference RNA antisense-psbO (siRNA-psbO) fragments. The algal mutants were selected by checking for the existence of siRNA-psbO fragments in their genomes and the low amount of PsbO proteins. The HYDA transcription and the HydA expression were observed in the PsbO-knockdown mutants. Under semi-aerobic condition, PsbO-knockdown mutants could photobiologically produce H2 which increased by as much as 10-fold in comparison to the wild type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Di Lin
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
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Liu D, Hoynes-O'Connor A, Zhang F. Bridging the gap between systems biology and synthetic biology. Front Microbiol 2013; 4:211. [PMID: 23898328 PMCID: PMC3722476 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2013.00211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2013] [Accepted: 07/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Systems biology is an inter-disciplinary science that studies the complex interactions and the collective behavior of a cell or an organism. Synthetic biology, as a technological subject, combines biological science and engineering, allowing the design and manipulation of a system for certain applications. Both systems and synthetic biology have played important roles in the recent development of microbial platforms for energy, materials, and environmental applications. More importantly, systems biology provides the knowledge necessary for the development of synthetic biology tools, which in turn facilitates the manipulation and understanding of complex biological systems. Thus, the combination of systems and synthetic biology has huge potential for studying and engineering microbes, especially to perform advanced tasks, such as producing biofuels. Although there have been very few studies in integrating systems and synthetic biology, existing examples have demonstrated great power in extending microbiological capabilities. This review focuses on recent efforts in microbiological genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, aiming to fill the gap between systems and synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Liu
- Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University St. Louis, MO, USA
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Wang J, Feng X, Anderson CWN, Xing Y, Shang L. Remediation of mercury contaminated sites - A review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2012; 221-222:1-18. [PMID: 22579459 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2012.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2011] [Revised: 04/08/2012] [Accepted: 04/14/2012] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contamination caused by mercury is a serious problem worldwide. Coal combustion, mercury and gold mining activities and industrial activities have led to an increase in the mercury concentration in soil. The objective of this paper is to present an up-to-date understanding of the available techniques for the remediation of soil contaminated with mercury through considering: mercury contamination in soil, mercury speciation in soil; mercury toxicity to humans, plants and microorganisms, and remediation options. This paper describes the commonly employed and emerging techniques for mercury remediation, namely: stabilization/solidification (S/S), immobilization, vitrification, thermal desorption, nanotechnology, soil washing, electro-remediation, phytostabilization, phytoextraction and phytovolatilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, 550002, China
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Mathema VB, Thakuri BC, Sillanpää M. Bacterial mer operon-mediated detoxification of mercurial compounds: a short review. Arch Microbiol 2011; 193:837-44. [PMID: 21912976 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-011-0751-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2011] [Revised: 08/29/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Mercury pollution has emerged as a major problem in industrialized zones and presents a serious threat to environment and health of local communities. Effectiveness and wide distribution of mer operon by horizontal and vertical gene transfer in its various forms among large community of microbe reflect importance and compatibility of this mechanism in nature. This review specifically describes mer operon and its generic molecular mechanism with reference to the central role played by merA gene and its related gene products. The combinatorial action of merA and merB together maintains broad spectrum mercury detoxification system for substantial detoxification of mercurial compounds. Feasibility of mer operon to coexist with antibiotic resistance gene (ampr, kanr, tetr) clusters enables extensive adaptation of bacterial species to adverse environment. Flexibility of the mer genes to exist as intricate part of chromosome, plasmids, transposons, and integrons enables high distribution of these genes in wider microbial gene pool. Unique ability of this system to manipulate oligodynamic property of mercurial compounds for volatilization of mercuric ions (Hg2+) makes it possible for a wide range of microbes to tolerate mercury-mediated toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Bhakta Mathema
- Department of Biotechnology, Kathmandu University, P.O. BOX: 7570 KTM, Dhulikhel, Nepal.
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Ruiz ON, Alvarez D, Gonzalez-Ruiz G, Torres C. Characterization of mercury bioremediation by transgenic bacteria expressing metallothionein and polyphosphate kinase. BMC Biotechnol 2011; 11:82. [PMID: 21838857 PMCID: PMC3180271 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6750-11-82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2010] [Accepted: 08/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The use of transgenic bacteria has been proposed as a suitable alternative for mercury remediation. Ideally, mercury would be sequestered by metal-scavenging agents inside transgenic bacteria for subsequent retrieval. So far, this approach has produced limited protection and accumulation. We report here the development of a transgenic system that effectively expresses metallothionein (mt-1) and polyphosphate kinase (ppk) genes in bacteria in order to provide high mercury resistance and accumulation. Results In this study, bacterial transformation with transcriptional and translational enhanced vectors designed for the expression of metallothionein and polyphosphate kinase provided high transgene transcript levels independent of the gene being expressed. Expression of polyphosphate kinase and metallothionein in transgenic bacteria provided high resistance to mercury, up to 80 μM and 120 μM, respectively. Here we show for the first time that metallothionein can be efficiently expressed in bacteria without being fused to a carrier protein to enhance mercury bioremediation. Cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry analyzes revealed that the mt-1 transgenic bacteria accumulated up to 100.2 ± 17.6 μM of mercury from media containing 120 μM Hg. The extent of mercury remediation was such that the contaminated media remediated by the mt-1 transgenic bacteria supported the growth of untransformed bacteria. Cell aggregation, precipitation and color changes were visually observed in mt-1 and ppk transgenic bacteria when these cells were grown in high mercury concentrations. Conclusion The transgenic bacterial system described in this study presents a viable technology for mercury bioremediation from liquid matrices because it provides high mercury resistance and accumulation while inhibiting elemental mercury volatilization. This is the first report that shows that metallothionein expression provides mercury resistance and accumulation in recombinant bacteria. The high accumulation of mercury in the transgenic cells could present the possibility of retrieving the accumulated mercury for further industrial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar N Ruiz
- Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, 500 Dr. John Will Harris, Bayamon, Puerto Rico.
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Chien LF, Wu YC, Chen HP. Mitochondrial energy metabolism in young bamboo rhizomes from Bambusa oldhamii and Phyllostachys edulis during shooting stage. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2011; 49:449-457. [PMID: 21334908 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2011.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2010] [Revised: 01/13/2011] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The energy metabolism of mitochondria in young rhizomes of the bamboo species Bambusa oldhamii, which favors shooting during the summer, and Phyllostachys edulis, which favors shooting during the winter, was characterized. The mitochondrial energy-converting system was clarified in terms of respiratory activity and structural organization. The respiration rates were measured at 15, 28, and 42 °C by NADH, succinate, and malate oxidation. NADH was shown to act as an efficient substrate regardless of the temperature. The structural organization of functional mitochondrial respiratory supercomplexes was studied using blue native PAGE and in-gel activity staining. In both species, almost 90% of the total complex I was assembled into supercomplexes, and P. edulis contained a greater amount of complex-I-comprising supercomplexes than B. oldhamii. Approximately 50% of complex III and 75% of complex V were included in supercomplexes, whereas P. edulis mitochondria possessed a greater amount of complex-V-comprising supercomplexes. The alternative oxidase (AOX), plant mitochondrial uncoupling protein (PUCP), plant mitochondrial potassium channel (PmitoK(ATP)), rotenone-insensitive external/internal NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase [NDH(e/i)], and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities of the energy-dissipating systems were investigated. P. edulis mitochondria had higher levels of the PUCP1 and AOX1 proteins than B. oldhamii mitochondria. The activity of PmitoK(ATP) in P. edulis was higher than that in B. oldhamii. However, P. edulis mitochondria possessed lower NDH(e/i) and SOD activities than B. oldhamii mitochondria. The results suggest that the adaptation of P. edulis to a cooler environment may correlate with its greater abundance of functional mitochondrial supercomplexes and the higher energy-dissipating capacity of its AOX, PUCP and PmitoK(ATP) relative to B. oldhamii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee-Feng Chien
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Genetic engineering to enhance mercury phytoremediation. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2009; 20:213-9. [PMID: 19328673 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2009.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2008] [Revised: 02/17/2009] [Accepted: 02/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Most phytoremediation studies utilize merA or merB genes to modify plants via the nuclear or chloroplast genome, expressing organomercurial lyase and/or mercuric ion reductase in the cytoplasm, endoplasmic reticulum or within plastids. Several plant species including Arabidopsis, tobacco, poplar, rice, Eastern cottonwood, peanut, salt marsh grass and Chlorella have been transformed with these genes. Transgenic plants grew exceedingly well in soil contaminated with organic (approximately 400 microM PMA) or inorganic mercury (approximately 500 microM HgCl(2)), accumulating Hg in roots surpassing the concentration in soil (approximately 2000 microg/g). However, none of these plants were tested in the field to demonstrate real potential of this approach. Availability of metal transporters, translocators, chelators and the ability to express membrane proteins could further enhance mercury phytoremediation capabilities.
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Chien MF, Huang CC, Kusano T, Endo G. Facilities for transcription and mobilization of an exon-less bacterial group II intron nested in transposon TnMERI1. Gene 2008; 408:164-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2007.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2007] [Revised: 10/17/2007] [Accepted: 10/24/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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