[Application of "omics" in bioremediation--a review]

Abstract

Environmental pollutants are a major concern worldwide. Bioremediation mediated by microorganisms is a highly promising technology that is environmentally friendly, safe and effective. However, successful execution of these bioremediation strategies requires a complete understanding of factors governing the growth, metabolism, dynamics and functions of indigenous microbial communities at contaminated sites. The combination of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics has provided a crucial insight into microbial communities and their mechanisms in bioremediation of polluted environment. This current review is focused on application of these technologies in bioremediation at contaminated sites. Limitations of each "-omics" analysis are briefly discussed and integration of these "-omics" technologies in study the processes of harmful algal bloom and the microbial degradation metabolism of organic pollutants are presented.