Emerging contaminants bioremediation by enzyme and nanozyme-based processes-A review

Due to their widespread occurrence and the inadequate removal efficiencies by conventional wastewater treatment plants, emerging contaminants (ECs) have recently become an issue of great concern. Current ongoing studies have focused on different physical, chemical, and biological methods as strategies to avoid exposing ecosystems to significant long-term risks. Among the different pro-posed technologies, the enzyme-based processes rise as green biocatalysts with higher efficiency yields and lower generation of toxic by-products. Oxidore-ductases and hydrolases are among the most prominent enzymes applied for bioremediation processes. The present work overviews the state of the art of recent advances in enzymatic processes during wastewater treatment of EC, focusing on recent innovations in terms of applied immobilization techniques, ge-netic engineering tools, and the advent of nanozymes. Future trends in the en-zymes immobilization techniques for EC removal were highlighted. Research gaps and recommendations on methods and utility of enzymatic treatment incor-poration in conventional wastewater treatment plants were also discussed.

Automated summary

Emerging contaminants (ECs) have become a significant concern due to their widespread occurrence and inadequate removal efficiency in conventional wastewater treatment plants. Current research focuses on physical, chemical, and biological methods to minimize long-term risks to ecosystems. Enzyme-based processes, particularly oxidoreductases and hydrolases, offer higher efficiency and reduced toxic by-product generation. This review highlights recent advances in enzymatic processes for EC wastewater treatment, including immobilization techniques, genetic engineering, and the development of nanozymes. Future trends in enzyme immobilization techniques and the incorporation of enzymatic treatment in conventional wastewater treatment plants are discussed.