Molecular mechanisms of microplastics degradation: A review

Microbial degradation of microplastics by enzymatic processes: a review

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Microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and algae produce enzymes capable of degrading microplastics, offering a biologically safe remediation pathway that avoids secondary toxic byproducts. Advancing our understanding of specific enzymes and their degradation mechanisms could unlock scalable solutions for eliminating persistent microplastic contamination from marine and terrestrial environments.

Degradation of Microplastics in the Environment

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Researchers reviewed how microplastics break down in the environment through mechanical, chemical, and biological processes, finding that degradation rates vary widely depending on the type of plastic and environmental conditions, meaning some plastics persist for decades or longer.

Degradation of Microplastics in the Environment

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This review outlines the mechanical, chemical, and biological degradation pathways of environmental microplastics, noting that degradation rates depend on polymer structure, chemical additives, and environmental conditions such as temperature and UV exposure. Understanding how microplastics break down is essential because degradation produces smaller nanoplastics and releases toxic additives, potentially increasing bioavailability and health risks over time.

Molecular mechanisms of microplastics toxicity

Microbial Degradation of Microplastics

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Researchers reviewed microbial degradation mechanisms for microplastics, identifying bacterial and fungal species capable of colonizing plastic surfaces and breaking down polymer chains through enzymatic activity, though noting that degradation rates under environmental conditions remain too slow to address current pollution levels.