[Advances in biodegradation of phthalates esters]

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Microbiology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Phthalate esters (PAEs) are widely used plasticizers, crucial for enhancing plastic properties.
• PAEs are recognized as significant environmental endocrine disruptors, posing risks to ecosystems and human health.
• Accumulated PAEs from plastic production and usage have led to widespread environmental contamination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the structural characteristics, classification, and toxicology of PAEs.
• To summarize the environmental pollution status of PAEs.
• To explore bacterial degradation pathways and mechanisms for PAEs removal.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of PAEs' properties, environmental impact, and biodegradation.
• Compilation of studies on PAEs-degrading bacterial species.
• Analysis of proposed mechanisms for bacterial PAEs degradation.

Main Results:

• PAEs exhibit diverse structures and classifications, with significant toxicological effects.
• Environmental pollution by PAEs is a global concern affecting organisms and human health.
• A variety of bacterial species capable of degrading PAEs have been identified.

Conclusions:

• Biodegradation is a key environmental remediation strategy for PAEs pollution.
• Understanding bacterial degradation mechanisms is crucial for developing effective bioremediation technologies.
• This review provides a reference for addressing PAEs pollution challenges.