1
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Hu Y, Tian Y, Zou C, Moon TS. The current progress of tandem chemical and biological plastic upcycling. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 77:108462. [PMID: 39395608 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 08/31/2024] [Accepted: 10/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/14/2024]
Abstract
Each year, millions of tons of plastics are produced for use in such applications as packaging, construction, and textiles. While plastic is undeniably useful and convenient, its environmental fate and transport have raised growing concerns about waste and pollution. However, the ease and low cost of producing virgin plastic have so far made conventional plastic recycling economically unattractive. Common contaminants in plastic waste and shortcomings of the recycling processes themselves typically mean that recycled plastic products are of relatively low quality in some cases. The high cost and high energy requirements of typical recycling operations also reduce their economic benefits. In recent years, the bio-upcycling of chemically treated plastic waste has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional plastic recycling. Unlike recycling, bio-upcycling uses relatively mild process conditions to economically transform pretreated plastic waste into value-added products. In this review, we first provide a précis of the general methodology and limits of conventional plastic recycling. Then, we review recent advances in hybrid chemical/biological upcycling methods for different plastics, including polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride. For each kind of plastic, we summarize both the pretreatment methods for making the plastic bio-available and the microbial chassis for degrading or converting the treated plastic waste to value-added products. We also discuss both the limitations of upcycling processes for major plastics and their potential for bio-upcycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Hu
- Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Yuxin Tian
- Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Chenghao Zou
- Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Tae Seok Moon
- Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Synthetic Biology Group, J. Craig Venter Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States.
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2
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Song Q, Zhang Y, Ju C, Zhao T, Meng Q, Cong J. Microbial strategies for effective microplastics biodegradation: Insights and innovations in environmental remediation. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 263:120046. [PMID: 39313172 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.120046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2024] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), diminutive yet ubiquitous fragments arising from the degradation of plastic waste, pervade environmental matrices, posing substantial risks to ecological systems and trophic dynamics. This review meticulously examines the origins, distribution, and biological impacts of MPs, with an incisive focus on elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning their toxicity. We highlight the indispensable role of microbial consortia and enzymatic pathways in the oxidative degradation of MPs, offering insights into enhanced biodegradation processes facilitated by innovative pretreatment methodologies. Central to our discourse is the interplay between MPs and biota, emphasizing the detoxification capabilities of microbial metabolisms and enzymatic functions in ameliorating MPs' deleterious effects. Additionally, we address the practical implementations of MP biodegradation in environmental remediation, advocating for intensified research to unravel the complex biodegradation pathways and to forge effective strategies for the expeditious elimination of MPs from diverse ecosystems. This review not only articulates the pervasive challenges posed by MPs but also positions microbial strategies at the forefront of remedial interventions, thereby paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in environmental conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Song
- College of Marine Science and Biological Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- College of Marine Science and Biological Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Cuiping Ju
- Qingdao Central Hospital, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Qingdao Central Hospital), Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Tianyu Zhao
- College of Marine Science and Biological Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Qingxuan Meng
- College of Marine Science and Biological Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Jing Cong
- College of Marine Science and Biological Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266000, China.
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3
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Safdar A, Ismail F, Safdar M, Imran M. Eco-friendly approaches for mitigating plastic pollution: advancements and implications for a greener future. Biodegradation 2024; 35:493-518. [PMID: 38310578 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-023-10062-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a global problem since the extensive use of plastic in industries such as packaging, electronics, manufacturing and construction, healthcare, transportation, and others. This has resulted in an environmental burden that is continually growing, which has inspired many scientists as well as environmentalists to come up with creative solutions to deal with this problem. Numerous studies have been reviewed to determine practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly solutions to regulate plastic waste by leveraging microbes' innate abilities to naturally decompose polymers. Enzymatic breakdown of plastics has been proposed to serve this goal since the discovery of enzymes from microbial sources that truly interact with plastic in its naturalistic environment and because it is a much faster and more effective method than others. The scope of diverse microbes and associated enzymes in polymer breakdown is highlighted in the current review. The use of co-cultures or microbial consortium-based techniques for the improved breakdown of plastic products and the generation of high-value end products that may be utilized as prototypes of bioenergy sources is highlighted. The review also offers a thorough overview of the developments in the microbiological and enzymatic biological degradation of plastics, as well as several elements that impact this process for the survival of our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Safdar
- Department of Biochemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Fatima Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan.
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan.
| | - Maryem Safdar
- University College of Conventional Medicine, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Institute of Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 5180600, Guangdong Province, China.
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4
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Bergeson AR, Silvera AJ, Alper HS. Bottlenecks in biobased approaches to plastic degradation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4715. [PMID: 38830860 PMCID: PMC11148140 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49146-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic waste is an environmental challenge, but also presents a biotechnological opportunity as a unique carbon substrate. With modern biotechnological tools, it is possible to enable both recycling and upcycling. To realize a plastics bioeconomy, significant intrinsic barriers must be overcome using a combination of enzyme, strain, and process engineering. This article highlights advances, challenges, and opportunities for a variety of common plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia R Bergeson
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Ashli J Silvera
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Hal S Alper
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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5
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Khatua S, Simal-Gandara J, Acharya K. Myco-remediation of plastic pollution: current knowledge and future prospects. Biodegradation 2024; 35:249-279. [PMID: 37665521 PMCID: PMC10950981 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-023-10053-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
To date, enumerable fungi have been reported to participate in the biodegradation of several notorious plastic materials following their isolation from soil of plastic-dumping sites, marine water, waste of mulch films, landfills, plant parts and gut of wax moth. The general mechanism begins with formation of hydrophobin and biofilm proceding to secretion of specific plastic degarding enzymes (peroxidase, hydrolase, protease and urease), penetration of three dimensional substrates and mineralization of plastic polymers into harmless products. As a result, several synthetic polymers including polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane and/or bio-degradable plastics have been validated to deteriorate within months through the action of a wide variety of fungal strains predominantly Ascomycota (Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium spp.). Understanding the potential and mode of operation of these organisms is thus of prime importance inspiring us to furnish an up to date view on all the presently known fungal strains claimed to mitigate the plastic waste problem. Future research henceforth needs to be directed towards metagenomic approach to distinguish polymer degrading microbial diversity followed by bio-augmentation to build fascinating future of waste disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somanjana Khatua
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, 211002, India
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, 32004, Ourense, Spain.
| | - Krishnendu Acharya
- Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Centre of Advanced Study, University of Calcutta, 35, Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India.
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6
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Zhang Z, Zhang Q, Yang H, Cui L, Qian H. Mining strategies for isolating plastic-degrading microorganisms. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123572. [PMID: 38369095 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Plastic waste is a growing global pollutant. Plastic degradation by microorganisms has captured attention as an earth-friendly tactic. Although the mechanisms of plastic degradation by bacteria, fungi, and algae have been explored over the past decade, a large knowledge gap still exists regarding the identification, sorting, and cultivation of efficient plastic degraders, primarily because of their uncultivability. Advances in sequencing techniques and bioinformatics have enabled the identification of microbial degraders and related enzymes and genes involved in plastic biodegradation. In this review, we provide an outline of the situation of plastic degradation and summarize the methods for effective microbial identification using multidisciplinary techniques such as multiomics, meta-analysis, and spectroscopy. This review introduces new strategies for controlling plastic pollution in an environmentally friendly manner. Using this information, highly efficient and colonizing plastic degraders can be mined via targeted sorting and cultivation. In addition, based on the recognized rules and plastic degraders, we can perform an in-depth analysis of the associated degradation mechanism, metabolic features, and interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyao Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, PR China
| | - Qi Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, PR China
| | - Huihui Yang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, PR China
| | - Li Cui
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, PR China
| | - Haifeng Qian
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, PR China.
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7
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Walker C, Mortensen M, Poudel B, Cotter C, Myers R, Okekeogbu IO, Ryu S, Khomami B, Giannone RJ, Laursen S, Trinh CT. Proteomes reveal metabolic capabilities of Yarrowia lipolytica for biological upcycling of polyethylene into high-value chemicals. mSystems 2023; 8:e0074123. [PMID: 37882587 PMCID: PMC10734471 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00741-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Sustainable processes for biological upcycling of plastic wastes in a circular bioeconomy are needed to promote decarbonization and reduce environmental pollution due to increased plastic consumption, incineration, and landfill storage. Strain characterization and proteomic analysis revealed the robust metabolic capabilities of Yarrowia lipolytica to upcycle polyethylene into high-value chemicals. Significant proteome reallocation toward energy and lipid metabolisms was required for robust growth on hydrocarbons with n-hexadecane as the preferential substrate. However, an apparent over-investment in these same categories to utilize complex depolymerized plastic (DP) oil came at the expense of protein biosynthesis, limiting cell growth. Taken together, this study elucidates how Y. lipolytica activates its metabolism to utilize DP oil and establishes Y. lipolytica as a promising host for the upcycling of plastic wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb Walker
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Max Mortensen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Bindica Poudel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Christopher Cotter
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ryan Myers
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ikenna O. Okekeogbu
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Seunghyun Ryu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Bamin Khomami
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Richard J. Giannone
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Siris Laursen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Cong T. Trinh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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8
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Acosta DJ, Alper HS. Advances in enzymatic and organismal technologies for the recycling and upcycling of petroleum-derived plastic waste. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2023; 84:103021. [PMID: 37980777 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2023.103021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Biological catalysts are emerging with the capability to depolymerize a wide variety of plastics. Improving and discovering these catalysts has leveraged a range of tools, including microbial ecology studies, high-throughput selections, and computationally guided mutational studies. In this review, we discuss the prospects for biological solutions to plastic recycling and upcycling with a focus on major advances in polyethylene terephthalate depolymerization, expanding the range of polymers with known biological catalysts, and the utilization of derived products. We highlight several recent improvements in enzymes and reaction properties, the discovery of a wide variety of novel plastic-depolymerizing biocatalysts, and how depolymerization products can be utilized in recycling and upcycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Acosta
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Hal S Alper
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA; McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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9
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Thew CXE, Lee ZS, Srinophakun P, Ooi CW. Recent advances and challenges in sustainable management of plastic waste using biodegradation approach. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2023; 374:128772. [PMID: 36828218 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.128772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Versatility and desirable attributes of synthetic plastics have greatly contributed towards their wide applications. However, vast accumulation of plastic wastes in environment as a result of their highly recalcitrant nature has given rise to plastic pollution. Existing strategies in alleviating plastic wastes accumulation are inadequate, and there is a pressing need for alternative sustainable approaches in tackling plastic pollution. In this context, plastic biodegradation has emerged as a sustainable and environmental-friendly approach in handling plastic wastes accumulation, due to its milder and less energy-intensive conditions. In recent years, extensive research effort has focused on the identification of microorganisms and enzymes with plastic-degrading abilities. This review aims to provide a timely and holistic view on the current status of plastic biodegradation, focusing on recent breakthroughs and discoveries in this field. Furthermore, current challenges associated to plastic biodegradation are discussed, and the future perspectives for continuous advancement of plastic biodegradation are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal Xue Er Thew
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Zhi Sen Lee
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Penjit Srinophakun
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Chien Wei Ooi
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia; Advanced Engineering Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500 Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia.
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10
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Malakhova DV, Egorova MA, Leontieva MR, Elcheninov AG, Panova TV, Aleksandrov YD, Tsavkelova EA. Anaerobic Microbial Degradation of Polypropylene and Polyvinyl Chloride Samples. Microbiology (Reading) 2023. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026261722602706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
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11
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Lomwongsopon P, Varrone C. Critical Review on the Progress of Plastic Bioupcycling Technology as a Potential Solution for Sustainable Plastic Waste Management. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14224996. [PMID: 36433123 PMCID: PMC9692586 DOI: 10.3390/polym14224996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Plastic production worldwide has doubled in the last two decades and is expected to reach a four-fold increase by 2050. The durability of plastic makes them a perfect material for many applications, but it is also a key limitation to their end-of-life management. The current plastic lifecycle is far from circular, with only 13% being collected for recycling and 9% being successfully recycled, indicating the failure of current recycling technology. The remaining plastic waste streams are thus incinerated, landfilled, or worse, mismanaged, leading to them leaking into the environment. To promote plastic circularity, keeping material in the loop is a priority and represents a more sustainable solution. This can be achieved through the reuse of plastic items, or by using plastic waste as a resource for new materials, instead of discarding them as waste. As the discovery of plastic-degrading/utilizing microorganisms and enzymes has been extensively reported recently, the possibility of developing biological plastic upcycling processes is opening up. An increasing amount of studies have investigated the use of plastic as a carbon source for biotechnological processes to produce high-value compounds such as bioplastics, biochemicals, and biosurfactants. In the current review, the advancements in fossil-based plastic bio- and thermochemical upcycling technologies are presented and critically discussed. In particular, we highlight the developed (bio)depolymerization coupled with bioconversion/fermentation processes to obtain industrially valuable products. This review is expected to contribute to the future development and scale-up of effective plastic bioupcycling processes that can act as a drive to increase waste removal from the environment and valorize post-consumer plastic streams, thus accelerating the implementation of a circular (plastic) economy.
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12
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Rana AK, Thakur MK, Saini AK, Mokhta SK, Moradi O, Rydzkowski T, Alsanie WF, Wang Q, Grammatikos S, Thakur VK. Recent developments in microbial degradation of polypropylene: Integrated approaches towards a sustainable environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 826:154056. [PMID: 35231525 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Fossil-fuel-based plastics have many enticing properties, but their production has resulted in significant environmental issues that require immediate attention. Despite the fact that these polymers are manmade, some bacteria can degrade and metabolise them, suggesting that biotechnologies based on the principle of plastic biodegradation could be beneficial. Among different types of plastics, polypropylene (PP), either having low or high density, is one of the most consumed plastics (18.85%). Their debasement under natural conditions is somewhat tricky. Still, their debasement under natural conditions is rather difficult slightly. However, different scientists have still made efforts by employing other microbes such as bacteria, fungi, and guts bacteria of larvae of insects to bio-deteriorate the PP plastic. Pre-irradiation techniques (ultraviolet and gamma irradiations), compatibilizers, and bio-additives (natural fibers, starch, and polylactic acid) have been found to impact percent bio-deterioration of different PP derivatives stronglythe various. The fungal and bacterial study showed that PP macro/microplastic might serve as an energy source and sole carbon during bio-degradation. Generally, gravimetric method or physical characterization techniques such as FTIR, XRD, SEM, etc., are utilized to affirm the bio-degradation of PP plastics-based materials. However, these techniques are not enough to warrant the bio-deterioration of PP. In this regard, a new technique approach that measures the amount of carbon dioxide emitted during bacterial or fungus degradation has also been discussed. In addition, further exploration is needed on novel isolates from plastisphere environments, sub-atomic strategies to describe plastic-debasing microorganisms and improve enzymatic action strategies, and omics-based innovations to speed up plastic waste bio-deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manju Kumari Thakur
- Department of Chemistry, Govt. Degree College Sarkaghat, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla 171005, India
| | - Adesh Kumar Saini
- Department of Biotechnology, MMEC, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana 133207, India.
| | - Sudesh Kumar Mokhta
- Department of Environment, Science & Technology, Government of Himachal Pradesh, 171001, India
| | - Omid Moradi
- Faculty of Science, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Tomasz Rydzkowski
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koszalin University of Technology, Raclawicka Str. 15-17, 75-620 Koszalin, Poland.
| | - Walaa F Alsanie
- Department of Clinical Laboratories Sciences, The Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Qilin Wang
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - Sotirios Grammatikos
- Laboratory of Advanced & Sustainable Engineering Materials (ASEMlab), Group of Sustainable Composites, Department of Manufacturing and Civil Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Gjøvik 2815, Norway
| | - Vijay Kumar Thakur
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Center, SRUC, Edinburgh, UK; School of Engineering, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun 248007, India.
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13
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Jarboe LR, Khalid A, Rodriguez Ocasio E, Noroozi KF. Extrapolation of design strategies for lignocellulosic biomass conversion to the challenge of plastic waste. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 49:kuac001. [PMID: 35040946 PMCID: PMC9119000 DOI: 10.1093/jimb/kuac001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The goal of cost-effective production of fuels and chemicals from biomass has been a substantial driver of the development of the field of metabolic engineering. The resulting design principles and procedures provide a guide for the development of cost-effective methods for degradation, and possibly even valorization, of plastic wastes. Here, we highlight these parallels, using the creative work of Lonnie O'Neal (Neal) Ingram in enabling production of fuels and chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass, with a focus on ethanol production as an exemplar process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura R Jarboe
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Ammara Khalid
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Efrain Rodriguez Ocasio
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Kimia Fashkami Noroozi
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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14
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Rodriguez-Ocasio E, Khalid A, Truka CJ, Blenner MA, Jarboe LR. Survey of non-conventional yeasts for lipid and hydrocarbon biotechnology. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 49:6554550. [PMID: 35348703 PMCID: PMC9338885 DOI: 10.1093/jimb/kuac010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Nonconventional yeasts have an untapped potential to expand biotechnology and enable process development necessary for a circular economy. They are especially convenient for the field of lipid and hydrocarbon biotechnology because they offer faster growth than plants and easier scalability than microalgae and exhibit increased tolerance relative to some bacteria. The ability of industrial organisms to import and metabolically transform lipids and hydrocarbons is crucial in such applications. Here, we assessed the ability of 14 yeasts to utilize 18 model lipids and hydrocarbons from six functional groups and three carbon chain lengths. The studied strains covered 12 genera from nine families. Nine nonconventional yeasts performed better than Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the most common industrial yeast. Rhodotorula toruloides, Candida maltosa, Scheffersomyces stipitis, and Yarrowia lipolytica were observed to grow significantly better and on more types of lipids and lipid molecules than other strains. They were all able to utilize mid- to long-chain fatty acids, fatty alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, and dicarboxylic acids, including 28 previously unreported substrates across the four yeasts. Interestingly, a phylogenetic analysis showed a short evolutionary distance between the R. toruloides, C. maltosa, and S. stipitis, even though R. toruloides is classified under a different phylum. This work provides valuable insight into the lipid substrate range of nonconventional yeasts that can inform species selection decisions and viability of lipid feedstocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efrain Rodriguez-Ocasio
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Ammara Khalid
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Charles J Truka
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
- Griswold Undergraduate Internship Program, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Mark A Blenner
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Laura R Jarboe
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
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15
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Singh Jadaun J, Bansal S, Sonthalia A, Rai AK, Singh SP. Biodegradation of plastics for sustainable environment. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 347:126697. [PMID: 35026422 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.126697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are a kind of utility product that has become part and parcel of one's life. Their continuous usage, accumulation, and contamination of soil and water pose a severe threat to the biotic and abiotic components of the environment. It not only increases the carbon footprints but also contributes to global warming. This calls for an urgent need to develop novel strategies for the efficient degradation of plastics. The microbial strains equipped with the potential of degrading plastic materials, which can further be converted into usable products, are blessings for the ecosystem. This review comprehensively summarizes the microbial technologies to degrade different plastic types, such as polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), and polyurethane (PU). The study also describes the utilization of degraded plastic material as feedstock for its conversion into high-value chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Singh Jadaun
- Department of Botany, Dayanand Girls Postgraduate College, Kanpur 208001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shilpi Bansal
- ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi 10012, India
| | - Ankit Sonthalia
- SRM Institute of Science and Technology, NCR Campus, Modi Nagar- 201204, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amit K Rai
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Regional Centre, Tadong, Sikkim, India
| | - Sudhir P Singh
- Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing, SAS Nagar, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
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16
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Tiso T, Winter B, Wei R, Hee J, de Witt J, Wierckx N, Quicker P, Bornscheuer UT, Bardow A, Nogales J, Blank LM. The metabolic potential of plastics as biotechnological carbon sources - Review and targets for the future. Metab Eng 2021; 71:77-98. [PMID: 34952231 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2021.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The plastic crisis requires drastic measures, especially for the plastics' end-of-life. Mixed plastic fractions are currently difficult to recycle, but microbial metabolism might open new pathways. With new technologies for degradation of plastics to oligo- and monomers, these carbon sources can be used in biotechnology for the upcycling of plastic waste to valuable products, such as bioplastics and biosurfactants. We briefly summarize well-known monomer degradation pathways and computed their theoretical yields for industrially interesting products. With this information in hand, we calculated replacement scenarios of existing fossil-based synthesis routes for the same products. Thereby, we highlight fossil-based products for which plastic monomers might be attractive alternative carbon sources. Notably, not the highest yield of product on substrate of the biochemical route, but rather the (in-)efficiency of the petrochemical routes (i.e., carbon, energy use) determines the potential of biochemical plastic upcycling. Our results might serve as a guide for future metabolic engineering efforts towards a sustainable plastic economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Till Tiso
- Institute of Applied Microbiology - iAMB, Aachen Biology and Biotechnology - ABBt, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Benedikt Winter
- Energy & Process Systems Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Technical Thermodynamics, RWTH Aachen University, Germany
| | - Ren Wei
- Department of Biotechnology and Enzyme Catalysis, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Johann Hee
- Unit of Technology of Fuels, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jan de Witt
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Nick Wierckx
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Peter Quicker
- Unit of Technology of Fuels, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Uwe T Bornscheuer
- Department of Biotechnology and Enzyme Catalysis, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - André Bardow
- Energy & Process Systems Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Technical Thermodynamics, RWTH Aachen University, Germany; Institute of Energy and Climate Research (IEK 10), Research Center Jülich GmbH, Germany
| | - Juan Nogales
- Department of Systems Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, CSIC, Madrid, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics Towards a Circular Economy-Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lars M Blank
- Institute of Applied Microbiology - iAMB, Aachen Biology and Biotechnology - ABBt, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
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17
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Qin ZH, Mou JH, Chao CYH, Chopra SS, Daoud W, Leu SY, Ning Z, Tso CY, Chan CK, Tang S, Hathi ZJ, Haque MA, Wang X, Lin CSK. Biotechnology of Plastic Waste Degradation, Recycling, and Valorization: Current Advances and Future Perspectives. CHEMSUSCHEM 2021; 14:4103-4114. [PMID: 34137191 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202100752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Although fossil-based plastic products have many attractive characteristics, their production has led to severe environmental burdens that require immediate solutions. Despite these plastics being non-natural chemical compounds, they can be degraded and metabolized by some microorganisms, which suggests the potential application of biotechnologies based on the mechanism of plastic biodegradation. In this context, microbe-based strategies for the degradation, recycling, and valorization of plastic waste offer a feasible approach for alleviating environmental challenges created by the accumulation of plastic waste. This Minireview highlights recent advances in the biotechnology-based biodegradation of both traditional polymers and bio-based plastics, focusing on the mechanisms of biodegradation. From an application perspective, this Minireview also summarizes recent progress in the recycling and valorization of plastic waste, which are feasible solutions for tackling the plastic waste dilemma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hao Qin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jin-Hua Mou
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | | | - Walid Daoud
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Shao-Yuan Leu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Zhi Ning
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Yan Tso
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chak Keung Chan
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Shixing Tang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
| | | | - Md Ariful Haque
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Eutrophication and Red Tide Prevention of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
| | - Carol Sze Ki Lin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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18
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Kim MJ, Tagele SB, Jo H, Kim MC, Jung Y, Park YJ, So JH, Kim HJ, Kim HJ, Lee DG, Kang S, Shin JH. Effect of a bioconverted product of Lotus corniculatus seed on the axillary microbiome and body odor. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10138. [PMID: 33980951 PMCID: PMC8115508 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89606-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The skin microbiome, especially the axillary microbiome, consists of odor-causing bacteria that decompose odorless sweat into malodor compounds, which contributes to the formation of body odor. Plant-derived products are a cheap source of bioactive compounds that are common ingredients in cosmetics. Microbial bioconversion of natural products is an ecofriendly and economical method for production of new or improved biologically active compounds. Therefore, in this study, we tested the potential of a Lactobacillus acidophilus KNU-02-mediated bioconverted product (BLC) of Lotus corniculatus seed to reduce axillary malodor and its effect on the associated axillary microbiota. A chemical profile analysis revealed that benzoic acid was the most abundant chemical compound in BLC, which increased following bioconversion. Moreover, BLC treatment was found to reduce the intensity of axillary malodor. We tested the axillary microbiome of 18 study participants, divided equally into BLC and placebo groups, and revealed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing that Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, and Anaerococcus were the dominant taxa, and some of these taxa were significantly associated with axillary malodor. After one week of BLC treatment, the abundance of Corynebacterium and Anaerococcus, which are associated with well-known odor-related genes that produce volatile fatty acids, had significantly reduced. Likewise, the identified odor-related genes decreased after the application of BLC. BLC treatment enhanced the richness and network density of the axillary microbial community. The placebo group, on the other hand, showed no difference in the microbial richness, odor associated taxa, and predicted functional genes after a week. The results demonstrated that BLC has the potential to reduce the axillary malodor and the associated odor-causing bacteria, which makes BLC a viable deodorant material in cosmetic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Ji Kim
- Department of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Setu Bazie Tagele
- Department of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - HyungWoo Jo
- R&I Center, COSMAX BTI, Seongnam, 13486, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Chul Kim
- Department of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - YeonGyun Jung
- Department of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeong-Jun Park
- Department of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Jai-Hyun So
- National Development Institute of Korean Medicine, 94, Hwarang-ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do, 38540, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Jin Kim
- Experiment Research Institute, National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service, Gimcheon, Gyeongsangbuk-do, 39660, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Jin Kim
- Experiment Research Institute, National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service, Gimcheon, Gyeongsangbuk-do, 39660, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Geol Lee
- R&I Center, COSMAX BTI, Seongnam, 13486, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghyun Kang
- R&I Center, COSMAX BTI, Seongnam, 13486, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Ho Shin
- Department of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea.
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19
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Chattopadhyay A, Maiti MK. Lipid production by oleaginous yeasts. ADVANCES IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2021; 116:1-98. [PMID: 34353502 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aambs.2021.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Microbial lipid production has been studied extensively for years; however, lipid metabolic engineering in many of the extraordinarily high lipid-accumulating yeasts was impeded by inadequate understanding of the metabolic pathways including regulatory mechanisms defining their oleaginicity and the limited genetic tools available. The aim of this review is to highlight the prominent oleaginous yeast genera, emphasizing their oleaginous characteristics, in conjunction with diverse other features such as cheap carbon source utilization, withstanding the effect of inhibitory compounds, commercially favorable fatty acid composition-all supporting their future development as economically viable lipid feedstock. The unique aspects of metabolism attributing to their oleaginicity are accentuated in the pretext of outlining the various strategies successfully implemented to improve the production of lipid and lipid-derived metabolites. A large number of in silico data generated on the lipid accumulation in certain oleaginous yeasts have been carefully curated, as suggestive evidences in line with the exceptional oleaginicity of these organisms. The different genetic elements developed in these yeasts to execute such strategies have been scrupulously inspected, underlining the major types of newly-found and synthetically constructed promoters, transcription terminators, and selection markers. Additionally, there is a plethora of advanced genetic toolboxes and techniques described, which have been successfully used in oleaginous yeasts in the recent years, promoting homologous recombination, genome editing, DNA assembly, and transformation at remarkable efficiencies. They can accelerate and effectively guide the rational designing of system-wide metabolic engineering approaches pinpointing the key targets for developing industrially suitable yeast strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atrayee Chattopadhyay
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, India
| | - Mrinal K Maiti
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, India.
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20
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Mihreteab M, Stubblefield BA, Gilbert ES. Enhancing polypropylene bioconversion and lipogenesis by Yarrowia lipolytica using a chemical/biological hybrid process. J Biotechnol 2021; 332:94-102. [PMID: 33838158 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Plastic waste can serve as a feedstock for microbial bioconversion using a chemical/biological hybrid strategy. We developed a polypropylene (PP) upcycling process that coupled pyrolysis with bioconversion by the oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. Using virgin PP, we optimized pH, inoculum density, C/N ratio, and osmolarity and increased the fatty acid titer nearly four-fold to 1.9 g L-1, with 41 percent cellular fatty acid content, the highest content reported to date for plastic-to-lipid microbial bioconversion. The highest fatty acid titer was achieved with an inoculum density of 3 (OD 600 nm), pH = 6.0 and C/N ratio of 80:1. Increasing the medium osmolarity by adding sodium chloride adversely affected cell growth and did not improve the fatty acid titer. The maximum fatty acid titer occurred under conditions that balanced cell growth versus lipogenesis. Using postconsumer PP, the fatty acid titer was significantly lower (0.13 g L-1). Overall, the work demonstrates the potential and the challenges associated with microbial bioconversion of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merhawi Mihreteab
- Biology Department, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30302-4010, USA.
| | | | - Eric S Gilbert
- Biology Department, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30302-4010, USA.
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21
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Liu Y, Cruz-Morales P, Zargar A, Belcher MS, Pang B, Englund E, Dan Q, Yin K, Keasling JD. Biofuels for a sustainable future. Cell 2021; 184:1636-1647. [PMID: 33639085 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.01.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Rapid increases of energy consumption and human dependency on fossil fuels have led to the accumulation of greenhouse gases and consequently, climate change. As such, major efforts have been taken to develop, test, and adopt clean renewable fuel alternatives. Production of bioethanol and biodiesel from crops is well developed, while other feedstock resources and processes have also shown high potential to provide efficient and cost-effective alternatives, such as landfill and plastic waste conversion, algal photosynthesis, as well as electrochemical carbon fixation. In addition, the downstream microbial fermentation can be further engineered to not only increase the product yield but also expand the chemical space of biofuels through the rational design and fine-tuning of biosynthetic pathways toward the realization of "designer fuels" and diverse future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhong Liu
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Pablo Cruz-Morales
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Amin Zargar
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Michael S Belcher
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Bo Pang
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Elias Englund
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Qingyun Dan
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Kevin Yin
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jay D Keasling
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA, USA; Division of Biological Systems and Engineering, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Departments of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University Denmark, Horsholm, Denmark; Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institutes for Advanced Technologies, Shenzhen, China.
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22
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Evaluation of the Biodegradation Efficiency of Four Various Types of Plastics by Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated from the Gut Extract of Superworms. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8091341. [PMID: 32887431 PMCID: PMC7563362 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8091341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Plastic waste worldwide is becoming a serious pollution problem for the planet. Various physical and chemical methods have been tested in attempts to remove plastic dumps. However, these have usually resulted in secondary pollution issues. Recently, the biodegradation of plastic by fungal and bacterial strains has been spotlighted as a promising solution to remove plastic wastes without generating secondary pollution. We have previously reported that a Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain isolated from the gut of a superworm is capable of biodegrading polystyrene (PS) and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). Herein, we demonstrate the extraordinary biodegradative power of P. aeruginosa in efficiently depolymerizing four different types of plastics: PS, PPS, polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). We further compared biodegradation rates for these four plastic types and found that PE was biodegraded fastest, whereas the biodegradation of PP was the slowest. Moreover, the growth rates of P. aeruginosa were not always proportional to biodegradation rates, suggesting that the rate of bacterial growth could be influenced by the composition and properties of intermediate molecules produced during plastic biodegradation, and these may supply useful cellular precursors and energy. In conclusion, an initial screening system to select the most suitable bacterial strain to biodegrade certain types of plastic is particularly important and may be necessary to solve plastic waste problems both presently and in the future.
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23
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Ru J, Huo Y, Yang Y. Microbial Degradation and Valorization of Plastic Wastes. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:442. [PMID: 32373075 PMCID: PMC7186362 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing accumulation of plastic wastes has become a severe environmental and social issue. It is urgent to develop innovative approaches for the disposal of plastic wastes. In recent years, reports on biodegradation of synthetic plastics by microorganisms or enzymes have sprung up, and these offer a possibility to develop biological treatment technology for plastic wastes. In this review, we have comprehensively summarized the microorganisms and enzymes that are able to degrade a variety of generally used synthetic plastics, such as polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PUR), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In addition, we have highlighted the microbial metabolic pathways for plastic depolymerization products and the current attempts toward utilization of such products as feedstocks for microbial production of chemicals with high value. Taken together, these findings will contribute to building a conception of bio-upcycling plastic wastes by connecting the biodegradation of plastic wastes to the biosynthesis of valuable chemicals in microorganisms. Last, but not least, we have discussed the challenges toward microbial degradation and valorization of plastic wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiakang Ru
- Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yixin Huo
- Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
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