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Biodegradation of PVCs through in-vitro identification of Bacillus albus and computational pathway analysis of ABH enzyme
Summary
Researchers identified a bacterium called Bacillus albus that can break down PVC, one of the most common and hardest-to-degrade types of plastic, using a specific enzyme called alpha/beta hydrolase. Computer modeling showed that this enzyme can effectively bind to PVC-derived compounds and begin breaking them down. While still in early research stages, this bacterial approach could eventually help address the growing problem of PVC microplastic contamination in the environment.
Microplastics pose significant challenges to ecosystems and organisms. They can be ingested by marine and terrestrial species, leading to potential health risks and ecological disruptions. This study aims to address the urgent need for effective remediation strategies by focusing on the biodegradation of microplastics, specifically polyvinyl chloride (PVC) derivatives, using the bacterial strain Bacillus albus. The study provides a comprehensive background on the accumulation of noxious substances in the environment and the importance of harnessing biodegradation as an eco-friendly method for pollutant elimination. The specific objective is to investigate the enzymatic capabilities of Bacillus albus, particularly the alpha/beta hydrolases (ABH), in degrading microplastics. To achieve this, in-silico studies were conducted, including analysis of the ABH protein sequence and its interaction with potential inhibitors targeting PVC derivatives. Docking scores of - 7.2 kcal/mol were obtained to evaluate the efficacy of the interactions. The study demonstrates the promising bioremediation prospects of Bacillus albus for microplastics, highlighting its potential as a key player in addressing microplastic pollution. The findings underscore the urgent need for further experimental validation and practical implementation of Bacillus albus in environmental remediation strategies.