WHEN ESSENTIAL TURNS EXCESSIVE: THE EMERGING ROLE OF FUNGI FOR BIOREMEDIATION OF ZINC AN ESSENTIAL YET TOXIC SOIL ELEMENT

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47413/26vczq60

Abstract

Zinc (Zn) contamination in soil, resulting from industrial discharges, mining activities, and the overuse of agrochemicals, poses serious environmental and ecological threats. Although Zn is an essential micronutrient, its excessive accumulation in soil can lead to phytotoxicity, reduced crop productivity, disruption of soil microbial communities, and bioaccumulation in the food chain, ultimately affecting human and animal health. Therefore, effective remediation of Zn-contaminated soils is crucial for environmental sustainability, food security, and ecosystem health. In recent years, fungi have emerged as promising bioremediation agents due to their high metal-binding efficiency, adaptability to extreme conditions, and ability to transform toxic metals into less harmful forms. This review explores the multifaceted mechanisms of fungal-mediated Zn remediation, including surface adsorption via functional groups on the fungal cell wall, intracellular sequestration through metal-binding proteins like metallothioneins, and biomineralization through enzymatic activity. Critical factors influencing Zn uptake—such as pH, temperature, biomass dosage, and metal ion concentration are discussed. Recent advances highlight the potential of strains like Aspergillus terreus SJP02 and white-rot fungi (Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Trametes versicolor), achieving Zn biosorption capacities of up to 70 mg/g under optimal conditions. Despite its promise, fungal bioremediation faces challenges related to environmental variability, presence of co-contaminants, and scale-up feasibility. However, ongoing research in fungal genomics, metabolic engineering, and the development of fungal consortia offers new opportunities to enhance the efficiency and field applicability of this eco-friendly, cost-effective remediation strategy. A deeper understanding of fungal biosorption mechanisms will play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable solutions for heavy metal-contaminated environments.

Author Biography

  • Jasleen Kaur, Gujarat University

    DBT SRF Fellow, Ph.D. Biotechnology student, Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Gujarat University

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WHEN ESSENTIAL TURNS EXCESSIVE: THE EMERGING ROLE OF FUNGI FOR BIOREMEDIATION OF ZINC AN ESSENTIAL YET TOXIC SOIL ELEMENT. (2025). VIDYA - A JOURNAL OF GUJARAT UNIVERSITY, 4(1), 174-190. https://doi.org/10.47413/26vczq60