State of the art on fungal biodegradation of persistent organic pollutants in soils and innovative strategies for isolating relevant candidate strains

The pollution by persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in terrestrial and soil ecosystems pose a significant global threat, due to their long-term stability, widespread dissemination and detrimental effects on human health and ecological systems. In recent years, myco-remediation has emerged as a sustainable and cost-effective restoration technology, offering several advantages over bacteria, given the omnipresence of fungi, their capacity to tolerate and survive harsh environmental conditions, as well as their ability to oxidize a broader range of compounds, particularly those with high molecular weight and increased recalcitrance. This review explores past and recent advancements in fungal bioremediation of soil contaminated with 19 persistent organic pollutants (POPs) listed under the Stockholm Convention, including ten from the original "dirty dozen" and nine of the newly registered POPs. Fungal species which had demonstrated POP degradation capabilities are delved and their advantages, limitations, and degradation pathways are assessed. A comprehensive review of fungal species applied for POP bioremediation is provided, highlighting the most frequently employed strains. The review also highlights the need of agreeing on standardized approaches, including criteria to select truly effective fungal remediation strains as well as appropriate initial POP concentrations. To guide future research, it provides also insights on innovative fungal isolation approaches, and explores advancements in characterization strategies, to uncover promising candidates for soil bioremediation. Innovations in myco-remediation hold great promise for effectively mitigating POPs in soil environments. This review highlights the growing importance of sustainable solutions for persistent organic pollutants management.