Biological Detoxification of Organophosphate Pesticides

摘要

The diverse array of naturally isolated microorganisms capable of degrading organophosphate pesticides has led to increased attention in using bioremediation as a method to treat these compounds. Combined with advancements in biotechnology, manipulation of natural systems for novel strategies in pesticide degradation has provided an environmentally-friendly in situ treatment method. The innovative use of bifunctional proteins with a catalytic domain and moieties for cell surface targeting, facilitated purification and immobilization are some of the recent strategies used to treat these chemical agents. This chapter will focus on the use of genetically engineered microorganisms and custom tailored enzymes as an alternative to current disposal methods for the treatment of organophosphate pesticides.