Science Cultivation

Science Cultivation

Bacterial Biodegradation of Microplastics

Document Type : Promotion Article

Author
Department of Biological Sciences, Institute for Advanced Studies in Basic Sciences (IASBS), Zanjan, Iran
Abstract
Microplastics, due to their persistence, ubiquity, and potential to bioaccumulate, have emerged as a significant environmental and public health concern. Their widespread distribution across terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric compartments, coupled with the use of harmful additives in plastic manufacturing, complicates their degradation and removal using conventional industrial methods. In light of these challenges, microbial biodegradation has gained increasing attention as a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to mitigate microplastic pollution. This article explores the current understanding of bacterial degradation of MPs, highlighting the mechanisms, degradation stages, and the key role of microbial enzymes such as esterases, lipases, laccases, and depolymerases. Several bacterial genera have demonstrated promising degradative capabilities against common polymers such as PE, PET, PS, and PP. Despite its potential, microbial degradation faces limitations, including low degradation rates and lengthy processing times. Addressing these challenges through strain optimization, enzymatic enhancement, and improved culture conditions is essential for advancing biotechnological solutions for microplastic remediation.
Keywords

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Volume 15, Issue 2 - Serial Number 30
December 2025
Pages 189-197

  • Receive Date 17 August 2025
  • Revise Date 02 September 2025
  • Accept Date 10 September 2025