Fungal bacterial associations uncover novel metabolic pathways for emerging contaminant degradation

Fungi play underappreciated yet critical roles in the bioremediation of organic pollutants, particularly emerging contaminants. This study integrates single-cell Raman-activated cell sorting (RACS) and stable isotope probing (SIP) to identify the novel Penicillium sp. LJD-20, which efficiently degrades 2-methylnaphthalene via multiple pathways, including dioxygenase-mediated hydroxylation and terminal methyl oxidation. Genomic analysis revealed key metabolic pathways.