Enzymatic cometabolic biotransformation of organic micropollutants in wastewater treatment plants: A review. (January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kennes-Veiga, David M.; Gónzalez-Gil, Lorena; Carballa, Marta; Lema, Juan M.
• Is Part Of: Bioresource technology. Volume 344:Part B(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-01
• Subjects: Cometabolism -- Enzymes -- Omics -- Pharmaceuticals -- Transformation products; Biomass -- Periodicals; Biomass energy -- Periodicals; Bioremediation -- Periodicals; Agricultural wastes -- Periodicals; Factory and trade waste -- Periodicals; Organic wastes -- Periodicals; Bioénergie -- Périodiques; Déchets agricoles -- Périodiques; Déchets industriels -- Périodiques; Déchets organiques -- Périodiques; Déchets (Combustible) -- Périodiques; 662.88
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126291
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-8524

Abstract

Highlights: The relevance of cometabolism during OMPs biotransformation is addressed. The main enzymatic activities involved in OMPs biotransformation are reported. The common approaches to determine key enzymes are analyzed. The major challenges and future research requirements are discussed. Abstract: Biotransformation of trace-level organic micropollutants (OMPs) by complex microbial communities in wastewater treatment facilities is a key process for their detoxification and environmental impact reduction. Therefore, understanding the metabolic activities and mechanisms that contribute to their biotransformation is essential when developing approaches aiming to minimize their discharge. This review addresses the relevance of cometabolic processes and discusses the main enzymatic activities currently known to take part in OMPs removal under different redox environments in the compartments of wastewater treatment plants. Furthermore, the most common methodologies to decipher such enzymes are discussed, including the use of in vitro enzyme assays, enzymatic inhibitors, the analysis of transformation products and the application of several -omic techniques. Finally, perspectives on major challenges and future research requirements to improve OMPs biotransformation are proposed.