Chemically decorated microalgae for environmental application

The presence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in different natural matrices and consequent toxic effects represent a public health issue. Due to their bioaccumulation, they have negative effects on different living organisms, including humans. Here we report a preliminary investigation of suitability of a microalgae-based technique for the bioremediation of marine sediment and water column. Phaeodactylum tricornutum, a model benthic diatom is tested for removal of different biphenyl molecules from sea water solutions. Moreover, cells are individually modified with a polydopamine coating, to enhance both their resistance in harsh environmental conditions and the capability of remediation to hydrophobic pollutants.