Nitric oxide–secreting probiotics as sustainable bio-cleaners for reverse osmosis membrane systems

Abstract

Membrane biofouling in water purification plants is a serious issue of worldwide concern. Various chemical, physical, and biochemical processes are practised for membrane clean-up. A high-dosage treatment adversely affects the life expectancy of the membrane, and minimum dosage seems unable to deteriorate the biofilms on the membrane. It is reported that quorum quenchers like nitric oxide (NO) disrupt biofilm signals through metabolic rewiring, and also NO is known to be secreted by probiotics (good bacteria). In the present review, it is hypothesized that if probiotic biofilms secreting NO are used, other microbes that aggregate on the filtration membrane could be mitigated. The concept of probiotic administration on filtration membrane seeks to be encouraged because probiotic bacteria will not be hazardous, even if released during filtration. The fundamental motive to present probiotics as a resource for sequestering NO may serve as multifunctional bioweapons for membrane remediation, which will virtually guarantee their long-term sustainability and green approach.

Use of Alteromonas sp. Ni1-LEM Supernatant as a Cleaning Agent for Reverse-Osmosis Membranes (ROMs) from a Desalination Plant in Northern Chile Affected by Biofouling

“…Several authors have proposed modifications in ROMs structures to improve their chemical and physical properties [ 28 ], as well as the application of different chemical or biological components as cleaning agents with less toxic effects [ 11 , 12 ]. In this context, the use of microorganisms that can degrade the biofouling EPS matrix has exhibited considerable promise [ 27 , 29 , 30 ]. However, several of these approaches have been evaluated only under laboratory conditions and on a small scale—conditions that, in many aspects, are not similar to those observed in the routine operation of desalination plants.…”