Microalgal Responses to Emerging Contaminants: Ecotoxicological Mechanisms and Biotechnological Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Emerging contaminants (ECs) in aquatic ecosystems present significant threats to environmental health, with microalgae being particularly vulnerable. Current evidence suggests that exposure to ECs triggers complex toxicological responses in microalgae, ranging from the inhibition of growth and photosynthesis to the induction of oxidative stress, DNA damage, and metabolic disorders. However, the underlying ecotoxicological mechanisms—particularly how ECs interfere with cellular signal transduction, gene expression profiles, and key metabolic pathways—remain insufficiently understood. Elucidating these molecular and physiological mechanisms is paramount for accurately assessing ecological risks and understanding the adaptive evolution of microalgae under pollution stress.

Conversely, microalgae also possess a remarkable capacity to biologically degrade such contaminants. This dual nature makes microalgae ideal candidates for "microalgae-based bioremediation." A deep understanding of their toxicological responses is directly correlated with the optimization of these biotechnologies; by identifying resistance mechanisms and degradation pathways, we can engineer more robust algal systems for water treatment. Furthermore, integrating these remediation processes with biomass energy production offers a sustainable route that aligns environmental cleanup with resource recovery.

This Special Issue, titled Microalgal Responses to Emerging Contaminants: Ecotoxicological Mechanisms and Biotechnological Applications, invites original research and reviews addressing the ecotoxicological effects and mechanism of emerging contaminants on microalgae, associated risk assessments and management, removal mechanisms, and the feasibility of microalgae-based biodegradation technologies.

Relevant topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Ecotoxicological mechanism of emerging contaminants on microalgae;
2. Risk assessments and management of emerging contaminants in aquatic environments;
3. Interaction mechanisms between microalgae and emerging contaminants;
4. Microalgae-based bioremediation technologies for emerging contaminants;
5. Coupling microalgal remediation processes with bioenergy production and resource recovery.

We welcome contributions that advance both scientific understanding and practical applications in this critical field.

Prof. Dr. Wei Li
Guest Editor

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