Advancements in siderophore-based technologies for metal biorecovery

Siderophores are low-molecular-weight, metal-chelating biometabolites that exhibit the ability to bind iron and other metal ions with high selectivity. Over 500 structurally distinct siderophores have been identified, offering diverse coordination mechanisms for potential metal complexation. Recent research has investigated their use in extracting metals from both primary and secondary sources, including ores, mine tailings, electronic waste, and industrial effluents—primarily under laboratory conditions. This review critically examines reported findings across various metal–siderophore systems, evaluating factors such as leaching parameters, synergistic use with co-lixiviants, and integration into hybrid approaches. However, no commercial applications currently exist, and significant economic and technical barriers—particularly high production costs and scalability challenges—limit practical viability. This review aims to consolidate current scientific understanding, highlight existing limitations, and outline realistic future research directions focused on overcoming technical and economic constraints to broader implementation.