Fungal Enzymes vs. Microplastics

The Blueprint for a Cleaner Planet
Erscheinungsjahr 2026
ISBN: 978-981-9241-33-0
Verlag: Springer

Buch, Englisch, 451 Seiten, Format (B × H): 155 mm x 235 mm

Reihe: Fungal Biology

This book presents a focused exploration of fungi as natural agents for microplastic degradation. It explains the role of fungal enzymes in breaking down persistent plastics and connects biological processes with practical applications in environmental cleanup.

The chapters begin with an overview of microplastic pollution and introduce fungi as effective degraders. They cover key enzymes like laccases, peroxidases, cutinases, and dehalogenases, showing their action on plastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, PET, polystyrene, and PVC. The book then moves into fungal biofilm formation and surface colonization, followed by genetic engineering approaches to improve enzyme performance. It also discusses bioreactor systems and field-level applications, ending with a roadmap for scaling fungal solutions and addressing real-world challenges.

This book is a part of the 'Fungal Biology' book series and serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and professionals in environmental science, microbiology, and biotechnology. It supports those working on sustainable waste management and offers clear strategies for applying fungal systems to reduce plastic pollution.

Zielgruppe

Research

Autoren/Hrsg.

Chauhan, Prabhat K.

Chauhan, Avnish

Fachgebiete

• Naturwissenschaften Biowissenschaften Molekularbiologie
• Naturwissenschaften Biowissenschaften Biowissenschaften Ökologie
• Naturwissenschaften Biowissenschaften Mikrobiologie
• Technische Wissenschaften Verfahrenstechnik | Chemieingenieurwesen | Biotechnologie Biotechnologie

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Chapter 1: Plastic and mycelium converge: The dawn of next generation bioremediation.- Chapter 2: Fungi as Natural Biodegraders: Enzyme Diversity and Ecological Roles.- Chapter 3: Degrading the undefeated: Laccase Assault on Polyethylene Structure and Stability.- Chapter 4: Molecular Combat Against Polypropylene–The Role of Peroxidases in Biodegradation.- Chapter 5: Cutinases and Esterases in Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) Degradation.- Chapter 6: Fungi as Natural Biodegraders–Enzymatic Diversity and Ecological Roles.- Chapter 7: The Halogenated Challenge: Enzymatic Degradation of PVC via Dehalogenases and Peroxidases.- Chapter 8: Synergistic Enzyme Systems for Mixed Microplastic Matrices: the latest research trends.- Chapter 9: Mechanistic Insights into Fungal Biofilm Formation and Plastic Surface Colonization.- Chapter 10: Genomic Engineering and Expression of Plastic-Degrading Enzymes.- Chapter-11: Environment Bioreactors and On-Site Fungal Remediation Systems.- Chapter 12: Fungi for future risk, reward, and a roadmap for aplastic-free environment.

Über Autor(innen)

Dr. Prabhat K. Chauhan is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Science at Amicable Knowledge Solution University, Satna, Madhya Pradesh, India. He has previously worked on various academic and research projects focused on plant-microbe interactions, salinity stress, and pollution management. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from V.B.S. Purvanchal University, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. His research interests include microbial remediation, enzyme kinetics, DNA quantification, and environmental monitoring. He has received recognition for his contributions through invited lectures and active participation in national and international conferences. His publication record includes multiple research articles, book chapters, and edited volumes.

Dr. Avnish Chauhan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Science at Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. He brings over two decades of experience in teaching, research, and academic leadership. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Gurukula Kangri University, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India. His areas of interest include climate change, air and water quality, sustainable agriculture, and waste management. He has received national awards for academic excellence and oral presentations. His publication record includes numerous research papers, book chapters, and edited books. He actively contributes to environmental education and interdisciplinary research.