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The Key Microbial Processes in the Removal of Toxic Metals and Radionuclides from the Environment

Lajos G. Gazsó

Department of Environmental Radiobiology, “Frédéric Joliot-Curie” National Research Institute for Radiobiology and Radiohygiene, “József Fodor“ National Center for Public Health, Budapest, Hungary

Corresponding author: Dr. Lajos Gazsó
    Department of Environmental Radiobiology,
    “Frédéric Joliot-Curie” National Research Institute for Radiobiology
    and Radiohygiene, “József Fodor“ National Center for Public Health
    P.O. Box 101
    H-1775 Budapest, Hungary
    Telephone: (+36) 1 482-2004
    Fax number: (+36) 1 482-2005
    E-mail adress: gazso@hp.osski.hu

CEJOEM 2001, Vol.7. Nos.3-4.:178-185

Key words:
Biosorption, bioprecipitation, bioaccumulation, siderophores, toxic metals, radionuclides

Abstract:
The increasing amount of toxic metals and radionuclides emitted into the biosphere as a result of industrial activities indicate a potential hazard to the ecosystem. With the increasing need for the safe removal of toxic metals and radionuclides and the continued public interest of environmental problems, the microbial processes play an important role in the future of waste management. The key microbial processes which may effect mobilisation or immobilisation of toxic elements are reviewed.

Received: 13 September 2001
Accepted: 26 January 2002

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