Comprehensive Evaluation of Mycoremediation using Aspergillus sp. Exopolysaccharide as A Sustainable Strategy

Heavy metals are naturally occurring and necessary for life; they can also accumulate in organisms and cause harm. The most prevalent heavy metals that can harm human health and cause poisoning are lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel and chromium. The biotechnological term “mycoremediation” refers to the efficient and economical deletion of hazardous contaminants from the environment using fungi. By using fungal biomass, heavy metals can be eliminated by biological processes as breakdown, absorption, accumulation, and conversion. Certain research has shown the effectiveness of numerous fungal species in eliminating heavy metals, such as mold (Aspergillus; Rhizopus), yeast (Penicillium; Saccharomyces), and mushrooms. However, filamentous fungal sp., such as Aspergillus sp., is the most adept at doing so from liquid substrates. The exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing and bioremediation properties of Aspergillus sp. are known properties of the bioactive form. Aspergillus sp. EPSs is significant natural biopolymers that have potential to safely and efficiently detoxify the heavy metals from environment. They have a very promising future for the industrial sectors that produce heavy metals.