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Review of MTBE Biodegradation and Bioremediation

Conclusive evidence of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) biotransformation and complete mineralization under aerobic conditions in environmental samples and enrichment cultures is reviewed, in addition to increasing evidence of MTBE biotransformation under anaerobic conditions. The metabolic pathway of MTBE appears to have two key intermediates, tert-butyl alcohol (TBA) and 2-hydroxy isobutyric acid (HIBA). The first enzyme in MTBE biodegradation has been identified as either a cytochrome P450 or a nonhemic monooxygenase in different isolates. Mixed and pure cultures of microorganisms have utilized MTBE as a sole carbon and energy source. Cometabolism of MTBE with n-alkanes at rates of 3.9 to 52 nmol/min/mg protein has been documented. The presence of co-contaminants such as BTEX has either not affected or seemed to limit MTBE biodegradation. Some studies of MTBE natural attenuation have attributed mass loss to biodegradation, while others have attributed mass loss to dilution and dispersion. Recent advances in the assessment of MTBE biodegradation have indicated the potential for natural anaerobic transformation of MTBE. In situ bioremediation of MTBE has been enhanced by adding air or oxygen, or by adding microorganisms and air or oxygen. Bioreactors have attained significant removal of MTBE from MTBE-contaminated influent. Despite historical concerns about the biodegradability of MTBE, several biological methods can now be used for MTBE remediation.