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Whole-genome sequencing dataset of Neobacillus sp. PPKKU5 isolated from a landfill-derived polypropylene microplastic-degrading consortium
Summary
Scientists discovered a possibly new bacterial species, found in landfill waste, that appears able to break down polypropylene—one of the most common plastics used in food containers, bottle caps, and packaging. By mapping this bacterium's complete genetic blueprint, researchers identified specific genes that may help it digest plastic, offering a potential lead for developing better ways to break down the microplastics increasingly found in our environment, food, and bodies. This is early-stage genetic research, though—more studies are needed before this discovery could lead to real-world plastic cleanup or health solutions.
This dataset contains the whole-genome assembly and associated genomic data of Neobacillus sp. PPKKU5, a bacterial strain isolated from a landfill-derived microbial consortium exhibiting polypropylene microplastic (PP-MP) biodegradation activity. The genome was generated using high-throughput sequencing and assembled for comparative genomic and functional analyses.The dataset was produced as part of a study investigating the biodegradation of polypropylene microplastics through integrated physiological, metabolomic, and genome-based approaches. Comparative genomic analyses indicated that strain PPKKU5 exhibited average nucleotide identity (ANI) values below 95% and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) values below 70% relative to currently described Neobacillus species, suggesting that it may represent a previously undescribed species within the genus.The genomic information was used to identify putative plastic-degrading enzymes, biosynthetic gene clusters, and metabolic pathways potentially involved in polypropylene microplastic biodegradation. These data support the findings reported in the associated manuscript and are provided to facilitate further comparative genomic and biodegradation studies.