Genomics and Applied Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 64-74 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/gab 66 2 Synthetic Microbial Communities (SynComs) 2.1 Definition and types of SynComs Synthetic Microbial Communities (SynComs) are artificially designed consortia of microorganisms that are engineered to perform specific functions, such as the degradation of environmental pollutants. Unlike natural microbial communities, SynComs are constructed with a precise composition and functionality, allowing for targeted and efficient bioremediation processes. These communities can be composed of bacteria, fungi, or a combination of different microbial species, each selected for their unique metabolic capabilities and synergistic interactions (Chen et al., 1999; Perpetuo et al., 2011; Tran et al., 2021; Han, 2024). 2.2 Techniques for engineering SynComs 2.2.1 Genetic engineering Genetic engineering involves the direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology. This technique is used to introduce new genetic material or modify existing genes to enhance the biodegradation capabilities of microorganisms. For instance, genes responsible for the breakdown of specific pollutants can be inserted into microbial genomes, creating strains with enhanced bioremediation potential. Recent advances in genetic engineering, such as CRISPR-Cas systems, have significantly improved the precision and efficiency of these modifications (Chen et al., 1999; Benjamin et al., 2019; Sharma and Shukla, 2020). 2.2.2 Metabolic engineering Metabolic engineering focuses on the optimization of metabolic pathways within microorganisms to improve their ability to degrade pollutants. This involves the introduction, deletion, or modification of metabolic pathways to enhance the production of enzymes that break down contaminants. Techniques such as recombinant DNA technology and gene editing tools are employed to construct metabolically engineered microbial strains capable of degrading complex pollutants. The co-cultivation of multiple metabolically engineered microbial communities can also be crucial for the bioremediation of multiple and complex pollutants (Dangi et al., 2018; Sharma and Shukla, 2020). 2.2.3 Synthetic biology tools Synthetic biology combines principles from biology and engineering to design and construct new biological parts, devices, and systems. This field provides a suite of tools for the creation of SynComs, including the design of synthetic gene circuits, modular genetic elements, and biosensors. These tools enable the precise control of microbial behavior and interactions within SynComs, leading to more efficient and predictable bioremediation processes. Synthetic biology also facilitates the development of microbial scavengers with improved efficiency of biodegradation while minimizing their impact on ecosystems (Perpetuo et al., 2011; Sharma et al., 2018; Tran et al., 2021). 2.3 Advantages of SynComs over traditional bioremediation SynComs offer several advantages over traditional bioremediation methods. Firstly, they can be tailored to target specific pollutants, making them more efficient in degrading complex and recalcitrant contaminants. Secondly, the use of engineered microbial communities can enhance the stability and resilience of the bioremediation process, as the interactions between different microbial species can lead to synergistic effects that improve overall degradation efficiency. Additionally, SynComs can be designed to minimize the ecological impact of bioremediation, reducing the risk of unintended consequences on native microbial communities and ecosystems (Chen et al., 1999; Benjamin et al., 2019; Tran et al., 2021). In summary, the development and application of SynComs represent a significant advancement in the field of bioremediation. By leveraging genetic engineering, metabolic engineering, and synthetic biology tools, researchers can create highly efficient and targeted microbial communities capable of tackling complex environmental pollutants. This approach holds great promise for addressing the growing challenges of environmental contamination in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner.
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