Presentation: 2025 ND EPSCoR Annual conference 

October 21, 2025, NDSU Memorial Union, Fargo, North Dakota

Microbial Strategies for Arsenic Remediation in Environmental Matrices

Arsenic is a naturally occurring carcinogenic metalloid, usually found in two chemical states, arsenite As (III) and arsenate As (V). More than 200 million people worldwide are affected by arsenic contamination. People are typically exposed to arsenic through drinking water or food grown in contaminated soils. This abstract provides an overview of effective remediation strategies using bacteria. Microbial activities strongly influence the bioavailability of arsenic to plants in water and soils. The mechanisms underlying arsenic remediation via biochemical routes include arsenite oxidation, arsenic methylation, biosorption, bioprecipitation, and bioaccumulation. The importance of microorganisms in reducing As toxicity in soil, factors affecting microbial remediation, plant interactions with As-resistant bacteria, and the impact of microorganisms on plant arsenic tolerance are discussed. Additionally, it offers detailed information about factors and stimulants that influence and assist microbes in arsenic removal, aimed at improving microbial bioremediation. Challenges and future research directions for developing and applying microbes for arsenic remediation are addressed, highlighting the significance of genetic engineering and technological innovation in tackling this urgent environmental and public health issue.