A reappraisal on biodegradation of fluoride compounds: role of microbes

Fluorine is a highly reactive gas, rarely occurs in nature, in elemental form. Fluorosis is an excruciating and crippling disease caused by fluoride intake. Microbial degradation is cost-effective and eco-friendly method of removing fluoride compounds. The enzymes and genes involved in the fluoride-degrading pathway have been identified and characterised. The in-silico studies on degradative enzymes and their molecular interaction can be more advantageous in understanding fluoride toxicity and its degradative efficiency. Microbes exhibiting fluoride degradative potential or fluoride adsorption potential can be used for bioremediation of fluoride-contaminated water. Large population is affected by fluorosis; both the welfare state and researchers are required to address the problem. The microbial degradation of fluoride provides sustainable, cost-effective and ecofriendly technology. In the present review, an attempt has been made to compile all the available literature related to biodegradation of fluoride compounds.