An Overarching Critical Review on Beta-Blocker Biodegradation: Occurrence, Ecotoxicity, and Their Pathways in Water Environments

Purpose of Review

Beta-blockers are drugs generally used to treat cardiovascular disorders. They commonly occur in water environments and cause significant threats to aquatic organisms. Therefore, removing these compounds from the environment is essential for maintaining environmental stability. The microbial biodegradation of beta-blockers has recently gained more attention due to their applicability, environment-friendliness, and cost-effectiveness. In this context, this review aims to identify the existing microorganisms and the pathways involved in the biodegradation of beta-blockers.

Recent Findings

The finding suggested that microorganisms, including archaea, bacteria, and fungi, are the major groups involved in the biodegradation of atenolol, metoprolol, and propranolol. Generally, microbes transform these complex compounds into less harmful metabolites; for instance, in biodegradation pathways of atenolol, metoprolol, and propanol transformed into atenolol acid, metoprolol acid, and carboxylic acid, respectively.

Summary

This review critically exposes the biodegradation process of beta-blockers using microorganisms and their pathways. Although numerous metabolites and enzymes have already been identified in the biodegradation of beta-blockers, several enzymes and metabolites still need to be explored.