Authors : Sadaf Zia; Dr. Manoranjan Bar

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 7 - July

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5n968shb

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/uc29atwf

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jul1143

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : The rapid expansion of industrial, urban, and agricultural activities has led to the continuous release of complex and persistent pollutants into aquatic ecosystems, posing significant risks to environmental sustainability and human health. Conventional wastewater treatment technologies, while widely implemented, are often constrained by high energy requirements, operational costs, incomplete removal of recalcitrant contaminants, and the generation of secondary pollutants. In recent years, genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) have gained considerable attention as an advanced biological approach for wastewater treatment due to their enhanced metabolic versatility and environmental compatibility. Through targeted genetic modifications, GEMs demonstrate improved capabilities for the degradation of organic pollutants, nutrient removal, heavy metal detoxification, and elimination of emerging contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and endocrine-disrupting compounds. This review critically evaluates the role of genetically engineered bacteria, fungi, and algae in wastewater treatment, focusing on their underlying mechanisms of action and application across domestic, industrial, and agricultural wastewater systems. The environmental benefits of GEM-based treatment, including reduced energy demand and improved treatment efficiency, are highlighted alongside key challenges related to biosafety, ecological risks, regulatory frameworks, and public acceptance. Recent advances in synthetic biology, genetic containment strategies, and system integration are discussed to assess future research directions and large-scale implementation potential. Overall, genetically engineered microorganisms represent a promising and sustainable solution for addressing the growing complexity of wastewater pollution when supported by robust regulatory oversight and biosafety measures.

Keywords : Genetically Engineered Microorganisms; Wastewater Treatment; Bioremediation; Emerging Contaminants; Heavy Metal Removal.

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