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Evaluation of resistance patterns and bioremoval efficiency of hydrocarbons and heavy metals by the mycobiome of petroleum refining wastewater in Jazan with assessment of molecular typing and cytotoxicity of Scedosporium apiospermum JAZ-20

Summary

Scientists isolated fungi from oil refinery wastewater in Saudi Arabia and discovered that a fungus called Scedosporium apiospermum JAZ-20 is exceptionally good at removing harmful metals and oil pollutants from contaminated water. This fungus was also tested on human cancer cells and showed promise as a potential anti-cancer agent while being relatively safe. The research suggests this fungus could be used as an eco-friendly solution to clean up polluted industrial wastewater.

Background

Jazan Industrial Economic City generates large quantities of industrial wastewaters containing toxicants from petroleum refining and other energy industries. Fungi possess significant capability for bioremoval and accumulation of heavy metals and hydrocarbons, offering cost-effective alternatives for environmental remediation.

Objective

To isolate and characterize fungal strains from refinery wastewater in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, screen for mycoremediation potential against crude oil, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heavy metals and chemical pollutants, and evaluate antibiotic resistance patterns and cytotoxicity of the most active isolate.

Results

Five fungal genera were identified (Fusarium 31.25%, Verticillium 21.88%, Scedosporium 18.75%, Purpureocillium 15.63%, Clavispora 12.50%). Isolate JAZ-20 showed highest bioremoval efficiency (90.8-100% for heavy metals, 89.50% crude oil, 96.7% naphthalene, 100% fluoranthene). JAZ-20 was identified as Scedosporium apiospermum with low antibiotic resistance and IC50 values ranging 8.92-40.0 μg/mL against normal cells and 33.75-43.26 μg/mL against cancer cells.

Conclusion

The mycobiome of refinery wastewater in Jazan shows promising bioremediation potential for crude oil, PAHs, heavy metals, and emerging contaminants. Scedosporium apiospermum JAZ-20 represents a newly discovered strain in Saudi Arabian industrial effluents with significant bioremoval capacity and selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Optimization of process parameters enhanced heavy metal bioremoval from actual refinery wastewater.
  • Published in:Heliyon,
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32954; PMID: 38994074
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