Breakthrough in Plasticiser Degradation Technology

IIT Roorkee researchers led by Dr. Pravindra Kumar have developed a pioneering method to degrade diethyl hexyl phthalate (DEHP), a carcinogenic plasticiser, using an esterase enzyme from the soil bacterium Sulfobacillus acidophilus. The enzyme breaks down DEHP into non-toxic components, marking a significant advancement in combating plastic pollution. Through genetic cloning, efficient enzyme production has been achieved, and sequential enzyme action further degrades harmful by-products into carbon dioxide and water. This research highlights the potential of bioremediation in addressing environmental contamination caused by plasticisers and promotes the integration of sustainable methods for tackling pressing ecological challenges.