Application of laccase-mediator system (LMS) for the degradation of organophosphorus compounds

Degradation of organophosphorus compounds was achieved in the presence of purified fungal laccase from Trametes versicolor and a small molecular weight redox mediator (ABTS). This laccase-mediator system (LMS) catalyzed degradation of VX, PhX and VR while had no apparent effect on CVX, ecothiophate or demeton. Inhibition of ABTS oxidation was shown with VX, PhX, VR and CVX. Results with CVX suggest either no degradation subsequent to interaction with the laccase active site or the formation of a new toxic compound. PhX degradation was also monitored by mass spectroscopy, a method that allowed us to identify certain intermediates formed during OP degradation. Altogether, results underline the importance of the OP nitrogen atom at beta-position and of its substituents, even though the intimate mechanism of laccase-catalyzed degradation is not yet known.