AUTHOR=Blessing Allen-Adebayo , Olateru Kehinde TITLE=AI-driven optimization of bioremediation strategies for river pollution: a comprehensive review and future directions JOURNAL=Frontiers in Microbiology VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2025 YEAR=2025 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2025.1504254 DOI=10.3389/fmicb.2025.1504254 ISSN=1664-302X ABSTRACT=This narrative review explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in optimizing bioremediation systems for river pollution control while addressing the challenges and limitations associated with its implementation. The review begins by examining traditional and emerging bioremediation methods, highlighting their limitations and the pressing need for innovative solutions. It then delves into the application of AI technologies in pollution monitoring and bioremediation optimization, providing examples and success stories from existing studies. The challenges of AI-driven bioremediation, including ethical concerns, technological constraints, and the need for responsible deployment, are critically analyzed. Emphasis is placed on fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to overcome these barriers. The review also presents future directions and actionable recommendations, including integrating AI with traditional approaches, addressing technological and policy gaps, and ensuring sustainable management of river ecosystems. Ultimately, this review stresses the revolutionary potential of AI in enhancing bioremediation systems and advocates for urgent action to address the challenges involved, paving the way for sustainable and effective river pollution control strategies.