Ligninolytic Enzyme-Driven Molecular Degradation of Synthetic Dyes by Wild Mushrooms: An FTIR-Based Investigation

The extensive use of synthetic dyes in industries such as textiles, paper, leather, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals has resulted in the discharge of large volumes of dye-laden effluents into the environment, posing serious ecological and health concerns. These dyes are chemically stable, highly visible even at low concentrations, and resistant to conventional physical and chemical treatment methods. In recent years, biological approaches, particularly fungal bioremediation, have gained attention as sustainable alternatives for dye degradation. Wild mushrooms, especially ligninolytic fungi, produce extracellular oxidative enzymes such as laccase, manganese peroxidase, and lignin peroxidase, which are capable of degrading complex aromatic dye structures. The present study investigates the ligninolytic enzyme-driven molecular degradation of selected synthetic dyes by wild mushroom species, with a focus on structural transformation analysis using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. FTIR analysis enables the identification of functional group modifications, providing insights into the breakdown of dye chromophores and confirming true biodegradation rather than mere decolorization. This research highlights the potential of indigenous wild mushrooms as eco-friendly agents for dye bioremediation and contributes to the development of sustainable wastewater treatment strategies.