Biotechnological methods to remove microplastics: a review

Abstract

Microplastics pollution is major threat to ecosystems and is impacting abiotic and biotic components. Microplastics are diverse and highly complex contaminants that transport other contaminants and microbes. Current methods to remove microplastics include biodegradation, incineration, landfilling, and recycling. Here we review microplastics with focus on sources, toxicity, and biodegradation. We discuss the role of algae, fungi, bacteria in the biodegradation, and we present biotechnological methods to enhance degradation, e.g., gene editing tools and bioinformatics.

Microplastics in the Ecosystem: A Systematic Review of the Methods for Their Detection and Removal

“…In fact, the degradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) has been noted to be particularly efcient [131]. Microalgae degrade polymeric substrates on plastic surfaces in wastewater using ligninolytic enzymes and exopolysaccharides [162]. (7) Fungal degradation of microplastics: Biodegrading plastics can be challenging due to their chemical and physical properties, which include a high molecular mass, hydrophobic nature, and low solubility.…”

Mechanistic Insights into Cellular and Molecular Basis of Protein‐Nanoplastic Interactions

“…In general, plastic can be degraded through a variety of degradation processes, which are classified into four categories based upon their underlying mechanism: a) photothermal degradation, b) ozone-induced degradation, c) catalytic degradation, and b) biodegradation. [149,150] The first three methods are associated with several drawbacks such as high cost, energy inputs, and production of unwanted toxic by-products (carbon and nitrogen oxides) thus making biodegradation a highly reliable method for decomposing plastic particles. [151] The biodegradation of plastic by microbes has received much attention in recent years due to its accessibility, easy modulation capabilities, and lower toxic effects on the environment.…”

Magnetic Microrobot Swarms with Polymeric Hands Catching Bacteria and Microplastics in Water

“…Microplastics, tiny fragments of plastic debris often measuring less than 5 mm in size, usually originate from the degradation of larger plastic waste and the shedding of microfibers from textiles. These particles are pervasive in aquatic environments, posing ecological risks due to their potential ingestion by marine organisms and the subsequent entry to the food chain, possibly impacting marine ecosystems and human health. − The coexistence of bacteria and microplastics complicates the task of their complete removal, exacerbating their impacts and posing a compounded threat to the environment and human well-being. , Despite the most recent advancements, the complex challenge of concurrently addressing the presence of free-swimming bacteria and microplastics remains largely unexplored, and ideas to reduce or prevent their interaction are yet to be discussed. − …”

“… 6 − 9 The coexistence of bacteria and microplastics complicates the task of their complete removal, exacerbating their impacts and posing a compounded threat to the environment and human well-being. 10 , 11 Despite the most recent advancements, the complex challenge of concurrently addressing the presence of free-swimming bacteria and microplastics remains largely unexplored, and ideas to reduce or prevent their interaction are yet to be discussed. 11 − 20 …”