Bioremediation of androgenic and mutagenic pollutants from industrial wastewater

Androgenic and mutagenic pollutants are linked to human and aquatic animal health and diseases as they block the normal functioning of endogenous hormones. As a major source of androgenic and mutagenic chemicals from industries such as pulp and paper, tannery, distillery, textiles, pharmaceuticals, etc., were considered. It has been reported that many enzymes from bacteria, fungi, and other microbes facilitate the biodegradation process of hazardous pollutants. Bioremediation through microbial enzymes is a cost-effective and nature-friendly biotechnology. Research activities in this field will contribute to developing advanced bioprocessing technology to reduce pollutant toxicity and develop novel, useful substances. The information has been extensively studied; hydrolase and oxidoreductase enzymes catalyzed the bioremediation process and the underlying mechanism thereof. This chapter provides a current description of the generation, characteristics, and toxicity of androgenic and mutagenic compounds and removal or degradation techniques, including biological methods. This chapter also discusses the current awareness of the possible human health impacts of androgenic and mutagenic compounds so that the consequences can be understood, and treatments applied to the issue as soon as possible.