The growth of population and industrialization has resulted in environmental contamination by organic pollutants, which are less soluble in water. Among these, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) occupy a major group, produced from incomplete combustion of petroleum, coal, oil, and wood. These are widely distributed in soil, sediments, water, and air. PAH exposure causes adverse health problems in humans and mammals such as carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic effects. PAHs are hydrophobic, lipophilic, persistent, and recalcitrant to microbial degradation because of their complex chemical structure and high molecular weight. However, their biodegradation can be enhanced by biosurfactant-producing organisms. The amphiphilic nature of biosurfactants increases the solubility and bioavailability of PAHs, thereby promoting their microbial degradation and making biosurfactants integral to effective bioremediation processes. The biodegradability, non-toxicity, stability, and robust performance of bio-surfactants across variable environmental conditions present them as compelling substitutes for synthetic surfactants in bioremediation applications to overcome environmental problems associated with PAHs pollution. This review emphasizes the role of biosurfactants in the bioremediation of PAHs and their mechanisms, potential organisms producing biosurfactants, selection, production, and the factors influencing their efficacy, and the challenges and future perspectives in this field.
