Principles of microbial degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons in the environment

Petroleum hydrocarbons (PHs) are a big group of chemicals that have caused a major concern because of their widespread distribution into the environment, bioaccumulation potential, harmful effects and biodegradation resistance. Soil and water pollution is mainly attributed to hydrocarbons from oil refineries, petrochemical industries, human activities and other sources. The mechanisms and factors that affect biodegradation should be further understood because the choice of bioremediation technique depends on them. This review described fungal PHs degradation, emphasized the relevant physicochemical and biological factors, and discussed the enzymatic systems influencing PHs biodegradation.