Degradation of azo dyes by environmental microorganisms and helminths

Journal Article · Mon Nov 01 00:00:00 EST 1993 · Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/etc.5620121120· OSTI ID:5596836

Chung, Kingthom; Stevens, Jr, S E ^[1]

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1. Memphis State Univ., TN (United States). Dept. of Biology

The degradation of azo dyes by environmental microorganisms, fungi, and helminths is reviewed. Azo dyes are used in a wide variety of products and can be found in the effluent of most sewage treatment facilities. Substantial quantities of these dyes have been deposited in the environment, particularly in streams and rivers. Azo dyes were shown to affect microbial activities and microbial population sizes in the sediments and in the water columns of aquatic habitats. Only a few aerobic bacteria have been found to reduce azo dyes under aerobic conditions, and little is known about the process. A substantial number of anaerobic bacteria capable of azo dye reduction have been reported. The enzyme responsible for azo dye reduction has been partially purified, and characterization of the enzyme is proceeding. The nematode Ascaris lumbricoides and the cestode Moniezia expanza have been reported to reduce azo dyes anaerobically. Recently the fungus Phanerochaete chrysoporium was reported to mineralize azo dyes via a peroxidation-mediated pathway. A possible degradation pathway for the mineralization of azo dye is proposed and future research needs are discussed.

• OSTI ID: 5596836
• Journal Information: Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry; (United States), Vol. 12:11; ISSN 0730-7268
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
AZO DYES
BIODEGRADATION
FUNGI
SENSITIVITY
HELMINTHS
MICROORGANISMS
CHEMICAL EFFLUENTS
RIVERS
TOXICITY
WATER POLLUTION
AZO COMPOUNDS
CHEMICAL REACTIONS
CHEMICAL WASTES
DECOMPOSITION
DYES
NONRADIOACTIVE WASTES
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
ORGANIC NITROGEN COMPOUNDS
PARASITES
PLANTS
POLLUTION
STREAMS
SURFACE WATERS
WASTES
540320* - Environment
Aquatic- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport- (1990-)
560300 - Chemicals Metabolism & Toxicology