Joseph A. Christie‐Oleza

Metabolic redundancy is required for microbial polyethylene assimilation

This study shows that metabolic redundancy in the β-oxidation pathway enables efficient microbial assimilation of oxidized polyethylene leachates.

Type IV pili increase phage encounter in marine cyanobacteria

This study shows that type IV pili in marine cyanobacteria increase phage encounter, leading to higher viral infection rates and competitive disadvantage in mixed populations.

Lack of functional polyester-biodegrading potential in marine versus terrestrial environments evidenced by an innovative airbrushing technique

This paper introduces an airbrushing technique to screen polyester biodegradation potential, revealing 1,000-fold higher activity in terrestrial than marine environments.