Eco-Powered Cleanup: Laccase as a Green Catalyst for Tackling Emerging Contaminants

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Widespread emerging contaminants (ECs) from diverse sources pose significant global health and environmental risks.
• ECs, including PFAS, microplastics, and pesticides, are detected across various environmental matrices like water and soil.
• Bioremediation offers a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to environmental cleanup.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the origins of emerging contaminants (ECs).
• To investigate the pivotal role of laccase (Lac) enzyme in the degradation of ECs.
• To analyze Lac-mediated degradation mechanisms and explore innovative applications for environmental remediation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on ECs and laccase (Lac) enzyme.
• Analysis of Lac's enzymatic properties and substrate specificity for EC breakdown.
• Exploration of Lac immobilization techniques to enhance contaminant removal efficiency.

Main Results:

• Laccase (Lac) demonstrates significant potential as a versatile biocatalyst for degrading a wide range of ECs.
• Lac-mediated degradation mechanisms are complex but effective for various contaminant classes.
• Enzyme immobilization enhances Lac's stability and efficiency in EC removal.

Conclusions:

• Laccase (Lac) is a powerful tool for the bioremediation of emerging contaminants (ECs), offering a green and sustainable solution.
• Innovative approaches like enzyme immobilization are crucial for overcoming challenges and maximizing Lac's application in environmental conservation.
• Strategic deployment of Lac holds promise for sustainable water and land resource management.