Suitability of nickel-resistant microbes for use in enhanced nickel bioremediation

Abstract

This chapter reviews the state of the art on microbial utilization on the rehabilitation of nickel-contaminated soils. A brief description of the main types of soils and of the relevant parameters that may influence their constitution and behavior is presented, as well as a short reference to metal contamination, in particular nickel contamination of soils. The effect of Ni on biota in general and on microbes in particular is discussed, and a general approach to bioremediation technologies is presented. Special attention is paid to microorganisms and their metabolism, and the development of resilience strategies is discussed under the same light. Finally, this chapter focuses on Ni-resistant microbes to be used in bioremediation approaches, with special attention to genetic engineering and to isolation protocols.