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Mechanisms of Biological Degradation of Microplastics in the Environment
Summary
This review paper rounds up what scientists currently know about using bacteria and other microbes to break down microplastics in the environment, including how special microbial enzymes attack different plastic types. While this research focuses on cleaning up plastic pollution rather than direct health effects, it matters to us because microplastics have been found in our food, water, and even our bodies—so finding better ways to break them down in nature could ultimately reduce our long-term exposure to them.
This chapter systematizes modern concepts of microplastic biodegradation in the environment with a primary focus on the molecular mechanisms of enzymatic degradation for synthetic polymers, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, PE terephthalate, and polyurethane. The enzymatic systems of microorganisms involved in plastic destruction are examined in detail. Novel approaches are explored, such as the use of genetically modified microorganisms and microbial consortia. The key limitations of biological remediation methods and potential strategies to overcome them are discussed. Promising directions for developing technologies to combat plastic pollution are highlighted.