Elucidating biodegradation of dimethyl terephthalate by two <i>Rhodococcus</i> strains for its valorization applications.

ABSTRACT: Dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) serves as the precursor in the production of polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, and polybutylene terephthalate. The widespread use of DMT in the polymer industry and its ubiquitous existence in end products raise alarms about its potential harm to humans and animals. DMT can enter the environment through the degradation of polymers and their end products, and cause endocrine disruption, oxidative stress, and an elevated risk of cancer. In recent years, DMT has also gained renewed interest in its potential for plastic recycling and upcycling. In this study, we identified two strains of Rhodococcus that possess DMT-degrading capabilities and utilized transcriptomic analysis and gene knockout to elucidate the mechanisms of DMT degra

SUBMITTER: Hu Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12856551 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature