The microbial degradation of azo dyes: minireview

• Published in: World journal of microbiology & biotechnology Vol. 29; no. 3; pp. 389 - 399
• Main Authors: Chengalroyen, M. D., Dabbs, E. R.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Dordrecht Springer Netherlands 01.03.2013; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Acids; Adsorption; Analysis; Applied Microbiology; Azo Compounds - metabolism; Azo dyes; Bacteria; Bacteria - classification; Bacteria - enzymology; Bacteria - metabolism; Biochemistry; Biodegradation; Biodegradation, Environmental; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Biotechnology; Color removal; Coloring Agents - metabolism; Dyes; Environmental Engineering/Biotechnology; Industrial Waste; Life Sciences; Microbial degradation; Microbiology; NADH, NADPH Oxidoreductases - metabolism; Oxidation; Oxidoreductases - metabolism; Review; Studies; Toxicity; Waste Disposal, Fluid - methods; Wastewater treatment plants; Biodegradation; Azo dye; Azoreductase; Oxidase
• ISSN: 0959-3993; 1573-0972
• DOI: 10.1007/s11274-012-1198-8

The removal of dyes in wastewater treatment plants still involves physical or chemical processes. Yet numerous studies currently exist on degradation based on the use of microbes—which is a well-studied field. However progress in the use of biological methods to deal with this environmentally noxious waste is currently lacking. This review focuses on the largest dye class, that is azo dyes and their biodegradation. We summarize the bacteria identified thus far which have been implicated in dye decolorization and discuss the enzymes involved and mechanisms by which these colorants are broken down.