Uncovering Insights into How Plastic Eating Bacteria Affect Metabolism
Scientists recently discovered a new species of bacteria that has the ability to eat plastic! This amazing new discovery could have a major environmental impact and could eventually lead to a solution to the global plastic pollution crisis. The bacteria, called Ideonella sakaiensis 201-F6, was discovered by a team of researchers in Japan. The bacteria is capable of breaking down and metabolizing a type of plastic known as poly(ethylene terephthalate) or PET. The bacteria produces two enzymes to break down the PET plastic and use the resulting molecules as a source of energy and nutrition. This could be a game-changer in the fight against plastic pollution and could open up new possibilities for recycling and waste management.
source: Phys.org