Recombinant Bacterial Bioremediation of Synthetic Dye Pollution as a Nature-Based Strategy for Aquatic Ecosystem and Biodiversity Conservation
Abstract
Synthetic dye discharges from industrial activities pose an increasing threat to aquatic habitats and biodiversity linked to forest ecosystems. Methylene blue (MB), a commonly used cationic dye, exhibits persistent properties in aquatic environments, negatively impacting microbial communities, primary producers, and aquatic fauna, thus disrupting ecosystem balance. Therefore, developing nature-based and environmentally friendly remediation approaches is crucial for protecting ecosystem integrity and ensuring biodiversity sustainability. In this study, the MB decolorization potential of recombinant bacterial cells expressing heterologous bacterial multicopper oxidase enzymes was investigated and compared with wild-type strains. Batch decolorization experiments were performed at different initial MB concentrations and contact times of 2–12 hours. The recombinant strain showed significantly higher performance than the wild-type strain, achieving approximately 51% decolorization within 12 hours. Increasing the contact time increased the decolorization efficiency in both strains, but it was determined that recombinant cells achieved higher decolorization in a shorter time. The findings suggest that recombinant bacterial systems can be environmentally friendly and economical biotechnological tools for controlling synthetic dye pollution. These approaches can contribute to the conservation of aquatic habitats linked to forest ecosystems, thus supporting the sustainability of biodiversity in the long term.
Keywords
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Conservation and Biodiversity
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Şeyma Akkurt
*
0000-0002-0135-1975
Türkiye
Publication Date
July 1, 2026
Submission Date
February 10, 2026
Acceptance Date
March 16, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 2 Number: 1