The below scientific review explores the microbial degradation of phosphonates, compounds characterized by a stable carbon-phosphorus bond. The article differentiates between natural phosphonates, produced by organisms, and anthropogenic phosphonates, which are man-made substances like glyphosate. It details three primary enzymatic pathways—hydrolytic, oxidative, and radical (C–P lyase)—that microbes utilize to break down these bonds, often to acquire phosphorus in nutrient-limited environments. The review also examines how phosphonate transporters facilitate their uptake and discusses the genomic distribution and environmental prevalence of these degradation pathways in marine, freshwater, and soil systems. Finally, it highlights the complex regulatory mechanisms governing these processes and their significant role in global biogeochemical cycling, particularly concerning environmental bioremediation. (Author: Dr. Lagref Jean-Jacques).

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0021967319305205