Bioremediation of lead (Pb)-contaminated soil using Trichoderma: current insights and future perspectives

Abstract

Lead (Pb) contamination in soils remains a critical global concern due to its persistence, toxicity, and long-term environmental and health impacts. Conventional remediation methods are often costly and may generate secondary pollution, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. This review synthesizes current insights into the potential of Trichoderma spp. as an effective agent for Pb bioremediation. Evidence indicates that Trichoderma utilizes multiple detoxification mechanisms, including biosorption, intracellular bioaccumulation, biomineralization, and the secretion of organic acids and siderophores, which collectively reduce Pb mobility and bioavailability. However, remediation efficiency is influenced by environmental factors such as soil pH, metal concentration, and microbial interactions, which may limit field-scale application. Future research should focus on molecular mechanisms of Pb tolerance, strain optimization, and the development of synergistic microbial plant systems, alongside emerging approaches such as genetic engineering and nanobiotechnology to improve scalability and effectiveness.