About This Project

Recently, we observed different PCB adsorption onto microplastic surfaces in Newtown Creek compared to Navy Yard in NYC. The microbial communities at these sites, characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing, show significant differences. We hypothesize that these distinct communities may lead to different biodegradation rates of PCBs on the particle surfaces in the two locations. To address this important question, the metatranscriptomic analysis will be conducted in the proposed work.

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What is the context of this research?

Our current data indicate that bacterial taxa are differentially associated with microplastics in the Brooklyn Navy Yard and Newtown Creek, highlighting the impact of localized environmental factors, such as nutrient availability and the presence of methane, on these communities. Regardless of the plastic type, there was an increase in the relative abundance of certain microbes. While mycobacteria may contribute to the degradation of plastic debris in coastal environments, their presence on microplastic particles can also negatively affect coastal ecosystems. This can inhibit the growth of bacteria capable of degrading PCBs and pharmaceuticals.

What is the significance of this project?

While 16S rRNA sequencing provides us with valuable data on the composition of these microbial communities, it does not extend to the functional aspects of their existence. Therefore, there is a need to delve into the realm of metatranscriptomics. This approach can shed light on the active genes and the metabolic pathways they encode within the microbial community. With this information, we can begin to unravel whether these microorganisms are playing a role in the breakdown of contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, PCBs, or the microplastics themselves.

What are the goals of the project?

The overall goal of this project is to examine the activities of microbes on the plastic surface and to determine whether the plastic surface plays a significant role in shielding associated pollutants.