A Review on the Biodegradation of Petroleum Pollutants Using Engineered Microorganisms for Soil and Water Remediation

Petroleum pollution resulting from oil spills and hydrocarbon contamination in soil and water sources is a major environmental concern, posing serious threats to ecosystems and human health. Biodegradation of petroleum pollutants has gained attention as an efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable approach for mitigating contamination in affected environments. This review explores the latest advancements in utilizing engineered microorganisms for the degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons, particularly under harsh environmental conditions. The application of genetically modified bacteria and fungi to enhance the biodegradation of complex petroleum compounds, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and alkanes, is analyzed. Furthermore, key challenges such as environmental concerns, genetic limitations, and the necessity of optimizing environmental conditions for maximum efficiency are discussed. Based on current findings, the use of engineered microorganisms significantly enhances the efficiency of bioremediation processes; however, further research is required to improve their stability and minimize potential ecological side effects.

Keywords:

Bioremediation , Oil Pollution , Engineered Microorganisms , Bioreactor , Nanoparticles , Biodegradation , Scalability , Phytoremediation , Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)