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Macrogenomes reveal microbial-mediated microplastic degradation pathways in the porcine gut: a hope for solving the

Tao Wang1,2, Yuheng Luo1,2, Bing Yu1,2

  • 1Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China.

Frontiers in Microbiology
|August 13, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Microplastics (MPs) are degrading in pig intestines, with gut microbes hosting key functional genes. This study identifies 94 genes and proposes degradation pathways for common plastic pollutants like PS, PET, and DEHP.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Microbiology
  • Biotechnology
  • Food Science

Background:

  • Microplastics (MPs) enter the food chain, raising concerns about their fate in foodborne animals.
  • Limited knowledge exists on microorganisms, genes, and pathways involved in MP degradation within animal digestive systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore microplastic-degrading microorganisms and functional genes in pig intestinal tracts.
  • To identify key enzymes and elucidate degradation mechanisms for common plastic pollutants.

Main Methods:

  • Macrogenomic analysis of pig intestinal tracts (Taoyuan, Duroc, Xiangcun breeds).
  • Screening and classification of microplastic degradation genes and associated enzymes.
  • Investigation of dietary fiber effects on gene abundance and diversity.

Main Results:

  • Pig colons harbor abundant microplastic degradation-related genes, primarily hosted by gut bacteria (Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes).
  • Identified 94 functional genes across 27 categories, with polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and DEHP being predominant.
  • Dietary fiber reduced gene diversity but not abundance; proposed degradation mechanisms involving oxidoreductase, hydrolase, and other enzymes.

Conclusions:

  • Gut microorganisms play a significant role in microplastic degradation within the porcine colon.
  • Identified functional genes and proposed pathways offer insights into microbial plastic biodegradation.
  • Findings contribute to understanding microplastic fate in foodborne animals and potential bioremediation strategies.
Keywords:
MP-degrading enzymesintestinal contentsmicrobial degradationmicroplasticpigs

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