Scientists have discovered that a type of microalgae can break down cimetidine, a common ulcer medication, in wastewater. This drug is hard to remove using regular treatment methods, which means it ends up polluting water systems.
The research focused on a strain called Chlamydomonas sp. SI-16, found in municipal wastewater. This microalga showed strong ability to handle high levels of the drug. In lab tests, it removed about 82% to 83% of cimetidine when exposed to concentrations of 1, 5, and 10 mg per liter.
When the algae were exposed to higher doses of the drug, their natural defense systems kicked in. They produced more antioxidant enzymes and released substances that protect cells. These responses helped the algae survive and keep breaking down the medication.
The main mechanism b