A review on cutinases enzyme in degradation of microplastics

From the surface of the earth to the depths of the ocean, microplastics are a hazard for both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Due to their small size and vast expanse, they can further integrate into living things. The fate of microplastics in the environment depends upon the biotic components such as microorganisms which have potential enzymes to degrade the microplastics. As a result, scientists are interested in using microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and others to remediate microplastic. These microorganisms release the cutinase enzyme, which is associated with the enzymatic breakdown of microplastics and plastic films. Yet, numerous varieties of microplastics exist in the environment and their contaminants act as a significant challenge in degrading microplastics. The review discusses the cutinases enzyme degradation strategies and potential answers to deal with existing and newly generated microplastic waste - polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL), polyurethanes (PU), and polybutylene succinate (PBS), along with their degradation pathways. The potential of cutinase enzymes from various microorganisms can effectively act to remediate the global problem of microplastic pollution.