Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was issued?
The paper addresses the rising environmental concern of arsenic contamination, particularly in sludge and sediment. This review comprehensively outlines the sources and distribution of arsenic in these environments, its biogeochemical cycling, and the vital role of microorganisms in both its transformation and remediation. Arsenic’s mobility, toxicity, and its interactions with microbial resistance genes (MRGs) are key focal points. The review also covers remediation strategies involving microorganisms, bio-adsorbents, and other advanced methods.
Who is affected?
Arsenic contamination in sludge and sediment poses significant risks to various stakeholders. Populations living in contaminated areas, especially those relying on groundwater for drinking and irrigation, are highly vulnerable. These include millions of residents in parts of South Asia, Latin America, and North America. Agricultural workers are at risk, particularly in regions where arsenic is absorbed by crops, such as rice, exacerbating the food chain’s arsenic exposure. Additionally, ecosystems dependent on clean water and soil are impacted by arsenic’s toxic effects, disrupting natural processes and biodiversity.
Most important findings
The review emphasizes several critical points regarding arsenic contamination. Arsenic enters sludge and sediment through both natural and anthropogenic activities, with the most significant sources being mining, industrial discharge, and agricultural runoff. Microorganisms play a pivotal role in the biogeochemical cycling of arsenic, capable of reducing, oxidizing, and methylating the contaminant, which affects its toxicity and mobility. Microbial resistance genes (MRGs) that allow microorganisms to resist arsenic toxicity are widespread and contribute to arsenic persistence in the environment. These genes can transfer between microbial communities, making arsenic pollution more challenging to control. The review identifies various microbial resistance mechanisms, such as efflux pumps, enzymatic detoxification, and intracellular sequestration.
Key implications
The findings from this review have significant implications for both industry and public health. For industries, especially those in agriculture, water supply, and mining, understanding arsenic’s behavior in the environment and its microbial resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies. Remediation efforts, such as bioremediation using genetically modified microorganisms, biochar, and other advanced treatments, will require integrating microbial processes to enhance arsenic removal efficiency. From a public health perspective, arsenic exposure remains a critical concern, especially for populations relying on contaminated water sources and agricultural products. Governments and regulatory bodies must address these risks by enforcing stricter pollution control standards and supporting research into effective remediation technologies. Policies must also focus on monitoring microbial resistance genes and their potential impact on human health.
Citation
Xing, M., Yan, D., Hai, M., Zhang, Y., Zhang, Z., & Li, F. (2024). Arsenic Contamination in Sludge and Sediment and Relationship with Microbial Resistance Genes: Interactions and Remediation. Water, 16(24), 3633. https://doi.org/10.3390/w16243633
