Scientists studied how a special enzyme called laccase from a white rot fungus can break down two common pesticides: 2,4-D (a herbicide) and chlorpyrifos (an insecticide). Using both laboratory tests and computer simulations, they found that the enzyme works better at room temperature and in acidic conditions, and that it can break down chlorpyrifos more effectively than 2,4-D. This research suggests these enzymes could be useful tools for cleaning up soil and water contaminated by pesticides.