Biological Degradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds (PAHs) in Soil: a Current Perspective

Purpose of Review

Here we examine recent research on the degradation of polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by fungi and bacteria. In addition, we provide information regarding the role that omics tools (next-generation sequencing) can play in the future development of bioremediation of PAHs.

Recent Findings

The toxicity of petrogenic wastes containing PAHs to biotic communities, including humans, is well established. Bioremediation strategies based on the use of microorganisms represent an economic and environmentally friendly approach (compared with other remediation methods) which is increasingly being applied for the treatment of PAH-contaminated soils.

Summary

Biological treatments or bioremediation exploits the hydrocarbon-degrading abilities of microorganisms, resulting in destruction of the contaminants and significant detoxification of the contaminated material. To further develop this approach as a consistent commercial technology, it is important to understand the microbial ecology of the remediation process, determining the key microorganisms which drive the underlying PAH degradation processes.