Biotechnological Strategies for diclofenac removal from the environment: microorganisms and immobilized systems

Abstract

Due to its persistence and insufficient removal in traditional wastewater treatment facilities, diclofenac, one of the most commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) worldwide, has been regularly found in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This makes it an emerging pollutant of concern. With an emphasis on the employment of microbes and immobilized systems, this review paper assesses biotechnological methods for removing diclofenac from the environment. The drug's physicochemical properties, its global distribution in surface water, groundwater, and soils, and its toxicity to non-target organisms such as fish, birds, invertebrates, and plants are all covered. Its effects range from oxidative stress and renal failure to genotoxicity and behavioral changes. Biodegradation mediated by bacteria (e.g., Rhodococcus ruber, Pseudomonas moorei) and fungi (e.g., Trametes spp.) shows potential for the compound's breakdown through mechanisms like hydroxylation and cleavage of aromatic rings, despite the efficiency and cost limitations of physicochemical methods. The use of immobilized biocatalysts, such as laccases in nanofibers, biochar or membranes, and microbial cells in biofilters, is particularly noteworthy since it increases the degraders' stability, reusability, and toxicity resistance. The creation of bioremediation systems based on immobilized preparations is found to be an environmentally safe, effective, and promising substitute for reducing diclofenac-induced environmental contamination.

Keywords: Diclofenac; Bioremediation; Microorganisms; Immobilized Systems; Environmental Toxicity; Laccase.