Asian Scientist: Plastic Degrading Enzyme Enhanced

A research group from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have modified enzymes in bacteria that degrade polyethylene terephthalate, a main ingredient in plastics. Non-bio-degradable plastics contribute to pollution. Ideonella sakaiensis is a bacteria that can use PET as a carbon source. The research team, using 3D modeling and biochemical studies, identified how the bacteria degrades plastics. They also developed a new variant of the bacteria, introducing other enzymes, to speed the process. The article includes no discussion about how the bacteria might be leashed or unleashed in targeting plastics. – YaleGlobal