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Breakthrough Enzyme Discovered to Combat Plastic Pollution

8/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers at Leiden identified an enzyme that allows bacteria to degrade plastics, offering a potential solution to plastic pollution.
The study in Nature Communications focuses on the bacterium Paracoccus denitrificans, which can utilize ethylene glycol, a PET plastic component.
This discovery paves the way for genetic engineering to convert plastic components into useful molecules.
The process resembles human alcohol metabolism, involving enzymes and common cofactors.
The findings indicate potential applications for reducing plastic waste and supporting a circular economy.

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Story summary

Researchers at Leiden identified an enzyme that allows bacteria to degrade plastics, offering a potential solution to plastic pollution.
The study in Nature Communications focuses on the bacterium Paracoccus denitrificans, which can utilize ethylene glycol, a PET plastic component.
This discovery paves the way for genetic engineering to convert plastic components into useful molecules.
The process resembles human alcohol metabolism, involving enzymes and common cofactors.
The findings indicate potential applications for reducing plastic waste and supporting a circular economy.