Review: Advances in microbiological degradation of Microcystin

Abstract

Microcystins (MCs) are secondary metabolites produced by freshwater cyanobacteria that have been associated with severe episodes of human and animal acute hepatotoxicity. MC is produced by several cyanobacteria species from t different genera such as Microcystis, Anabaena, Planktothrix. These have worldwide distribution in freshwater bodies and are known for their hepatotoxic effects in mammals by inhibiting protein phosphatase. So far, concern is growing over MCs contamination in drinking water in many countries around the world. MC is recalcitrant to conventional water treatment and is often detected even after chemical treatment of waters. Chemicals used to kill the algae are potentially toxic and may remain in the water to pose greater danger when consumed. Consequently, the biological methods of removing MCs are an alternative to the disadvantages of using chemicals. In this chapter, a review of the literature on the bacterial degradation of MCs was performed. Methods of isolation of bacteria were collected and a review of the state of knowledge of the subject was made including degradation mechanisms. Furthermore, we have exposed the advantages and disadvantages of biological methods and their potential application to water treatment biotechnology.