Combinatorial genetic engineering approaches in phytoremediation of pollutants

Abstract

Phytoremediation is the most widely applied approach for the removal of toxic pollutants. It has achieved great attention due to its environmentally friendly and cost effective nature. Several analytical tools have been developed that provide insight into selecting and optimizing remediation processes mediated by plant species. The limitations associated with the phytoremediation process accomplished through gene editing and transgenic technology. These tools have been successfully applied to manipulate the genetic material of plants for the uptake, transport, and sequestration of pollutants present in the rhizospheric zone. A better understanding of the plant mechanisms of bioremediation will lead to the creation of unique transgenic plants with desired remediation characters. The current chapter explores the various strategies applied by plant cells to stabilize, extract, degrade, or volatilize pollutants. The importance of modern genetic engineering tools is also elaborated toward the betterment of phytoremediation ability. The genetic engineering of metal-binding proteins, chelating agents, and transporters proteins etc. has been discussed here. The critical roles of endophytes associated with plants have also been explained with some good examples. Additionally, the phytoremediation of herbicides, heavy metal ions, and organic compounds has also been discussed with some case studies. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.