A Near-Real-Time Ficin-Based Enzyme Assay for Biomonitoring of Heavy Metals Pollution in Waters Near the Langkawi UNESCO Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Abstract

Near-real-time biomonitoring, especially when utilizing enzyme assays, offers exceptional sensitivity to bioavailable pollutants, yielding swift results favorable to immediate action. This approach is particularly crucial in the context of mitigating pollution in drinking water systems, safeguarding both human and animal health. This study presents an application of a previously developed enzyme assay in biomonitoring to detect pollutants, specifically heavy metals, in environmental samples from the UNESCO’s Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. Utilizing the ficin dye binding assay, developed for mercury (Hg2+), silver (Ag+), and copper (Cu2+) detection at the sub ppm level, we demonstrated its effectiveness in identifying low concentrations of these metals in marine and brackish waters. The assay provided a sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective monitoring, showing negligible inhibition (<10%) over a 6-hour field trial, indicating low pollution levels and verified using instrumental analysis. This approach enables the early detection of environmental contaminants, facilitating timely interventions and contributing to the protection of ecotourism sites by providing evidence-based data for policymaking. The simplicity and visual appeal of the enzyme assays also make them excellent educational tools, promoting environmental awareness and conservation efforts. Our findings underscore the potential of enzyme assays for widespread environmental assessment, aligning local monitoring practices with international standards and fostering global collaboration in environmental protection. This study not only contributes to our understanding of ecological health in marine and brackish waters but also highlights the importance of continuous monitoring to preserve natural habitats.