Scientists discover a plastic-eating “Pac-Man” enzyme with a surprising secret
Scientists found an enzyme that helps bacteria break down certain plastics and discovered it can also break down penicillin, suggesting a link to antibiotic resistance. The enzyme, nicknamed "Pac-Man," could help reduce plastic pollution if more biodegradable plastics are used. Researchers studied how microbes break down bioplastics in soil.
Scientists identified an enzyme that breaks down some plastics and penicillin, showing a possible link to antibiotic resistance. They studied how microbes break down biodegradable plastics in soil.
The enzyme could help address plastic pollution, but more biodegradable plastics are needed. The discovery also raises concerns about antibiotic resistance linked to plastic-degrading bacteria.
The research shows how nature can help solve environmental problems and highlights the need for sustainable materials. It offers a hopeful path toward reducing plastic waste.
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