University of Konstanz researchers discover plastic-degrading enzyme

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have discovered an enzyme, dubbed LCPH1, that can break down certain types of bioplastics. The enzyme, which features a wide active site reminiscent of the video game character Pac-Man, works by decomposing polyester chains into usable building blocks.

In their studies, scientists used long-chain aliphatic polyesters (LCAP), which possess material properties similar to conventional polyethylene but are chemically structured to be biodegradable. Microscopic observations of plastic films from forest soil revealed tiny, bacteria-shaped indentations, suggesting the enzyme operates directly on the surface where bacteria contact the plastic.

While the discovery offers potential for faster biological degradation of plastics, researchers noted a secondary effect: the enzyme may also render certain antibiotics ineffective.