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Wang S, Yu H, Li W, Song E, Zhao Z, Xu J, Gao S, Wang D, Xie Z. Biodegradation of four polyolefin plastics in superworms (Larvae of Zophobas atratus) and effects on the gut microbiome. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135381. [PMID: 39088959 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated superworms (larvae of Zophobas atratus) ability to degrade polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polypropylene (PP) within their digestive system. This study aimed to compare the ability of superworms to degrade the above four polyolefin plastics over a duration of 30 days. In this study, the degradation rate of PE was the highest, and the final average weight of superworms, as well as the final plastic mass loss consumed by them, significantly increased (73.38 % and 52.33 %, respectively) when PE was fed with wheat bran (1:1 [w/w]). FTIR and TGA indicated the occurrence of oxidation and biodegradation processes in the four polyolefin plastics when exposed to superworms. In addition, the molecular weights (Mw and Mn) of excreted polymer residues decreased by 3.1 % and 2.87 % in PE-fed superworms, suggesting that the depolymerization of PE was not entirely dependent on the gut microbial community. The analysis of the gut microbial communities revealed that the dominant microbial community were different for each type of plastic. The results indicate that the gut microbiome of superworms exhibited remarkable adaptability in degrading various types of plastics, and the intake preferences and efficiency of different plastics are associated with different dominant microbial community species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaibing Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Hong Yu
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Enze Song
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhao
- College of Plant Protection, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030800, China
| | - Jing Xu
- College of Chemistry and Material Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Shangkun Gao
- College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China
| | - Dandan Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China.
| | - Zhihong Xie
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City, Shandong 271018, China.
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Sucharitakul P, Wu WM, Zhang Y, Peng BY, Gao J, Wang L, Hou D. Exposure Pathways and Toxicity of Microplastics in Terrestrial Insects. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:11887-11900. [PMID: 38885123 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c02842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The detrimental effects of plastics on aquatic organisms, including those of macroplastics, microplastics, and nanoplastics, have been well established. However, knowledge on the interaction between plastics and terrestrial insects is limited. To develop effective strategies for mitigating the impact of plastic pollution on terrestrial ecosystems, it is necessary to understand the toxicity effects and influencing factors of plastic ingestion by insects. An overview of current knowledge regarding plastic ingestion by terrestrial insects is provided in this Review, and the factors influencing this interaction are identified. The pathways through which insects interact with plastics, which can lead to plastic accumulation and microplastic transfer to higher trophic levels, are also discussed using an overview and a conceptual model. The diverse impacts of plastic exposure on insects are discussed, and the challenges in existing studies, such as a limited focus on certain plastic types, are identified. Further research on standardized methods for sampling and analysis is crucial for reliable research, and long-term monitoring is essential to assess plastic trends and ecological impacts in terrestrial ecosystems. The mechanisms underlying these effects need to be uncovered, and their potential long-term consequences for insect populations and ecosystems require evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-4020, United States
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jing Gao
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Peng BY, Xu Y, Zhou X, Wu WM, Zhang Y. Generation and Fate of Nanoplastics in the Intestine of Plastic-Degrading Insect ( Tenebrio molitor Larvae) during Polystyrene Microplastic Biodegradation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:10368-10377. [PMID: 38814143 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c01130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The insect Tenebrio molitor exhibits ultrafast efficiency in biodegrading polystyrene (PS). However, the generation and fate of nanoplastics (NPs) in the intestine during plastic biodegradation remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the biodegradation of PS microplastics (MPs) mediated by T. molitor larvae over a 4-week period and confirmed biodegradation by analyzing Δδ13C in the PS before and after biotreatment (-28.37‰ versus -24.88‰) as an effective tool. The ·OH radicals, primarily contributed by gut microbiota, and H2O2, primarily produced by the host, both increased after MP digestion. The size distribution of residual MP particles in excrements fluctuated within the micrometer ranges. PS NPs were detected in the intestine but not in the excrements. At the end of Weeks 1, 2, 3, and 4, the concentrations of PS NPs in gut tissues were 3.778, 2.505, 2.087, and 2.853 ng/lava, respectively, while PS NPs in glands were quantified at 0.636, 0.284, and 0.113 ng/lava and eventually fell below the detection limit. The PS NPs in glands remained below the detection limit at the end of Weeks 5 and 6. This indicates that initially, NPs generated in the gut entered glands, then declined gradually and eventually disappeared or possibly biodegraded after Week 4, associated with the elevated plastic-degrading capacities of T. molitor larvae. Our findings unveil rapid synergistic MP biodegradation by the larval host and gut microbiota, as well as the fate of generated NPs, providing new insights into the risks and fate associated with NPs during invertebrate-mediated plastic biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yazhou Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Protected Agriculture, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Key Laboratory of Rural Toilet and Sewage Treatment Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xuefei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-4020, United States
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Key Laboratory of Rural Toilet and Sewage Treatment Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
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Di Liberto EA, Battaglia G, Pellerito R, Curcuruto G, Dintcheva NT. Biodegradation of Polystyrene by Plastic-Eating Tenebrionidae Larvae. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1404. [PMID: 38794597 PMCID: PMC11125288 DOI: 10.3390/polym16101404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is an extremely stable polymer with a relatively high molecular weight and a strong hydrophobic character that makes it highly resistant to biodegradation. In this study, PS was subjected to biodegradation tests by Tenebrio Molitor (T. Molitor) and Zophobas Morio (Z. Morio) larvae. Specifically, six different experimental diets were compared: (i) T. Molitor fed with bran; (ii) T. Molitor fed only PS; (iii) T. Molitor fed only PS treated with H2O2; (iv) Z. Morio fed with bran; (v) Z. Morio fed only PS; and (vi) Z. Morio fed only PS treated with H2O2. Therefore, the mass change of the larvae and the survival rate were measured periodically, while the frass collected after 15 and 30 days was analyzed by different analyses, such as spectroscopy (FTIR), spectrometry (molecular weight and polydispersity), thermal analysis (TGA) and microscopy (scanning electron microscopy observations). The obtained results suggest that in the case of T. Molitor larvae, larvae feeding on bran showed the highest survival rate of ~94% at 30 days, while in the case of the Z. Morio larvae, the highest survival rate was exhibited by larvae eating PS-H2O2. Although not strongly pronounced, the Mw and Mn of PS in the frass of both T. Molitor and Z. Morio larvae decreased over 30 days, suggesting PS biodegradation. Finally, the morphological analysis shows that PS samples isolated from the frass of T. Molitor and Z. Morio larvae showed completely different, rough and irregularly carved surface structures, in comparison to PS before biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Alessia Di Liberto
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 6, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Battaglia
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 6, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Rosalia Pellerito
- Istituto Comprensivo Statale “Luigi Capuana”, Via A. Narbone, 55, 90138 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giusy Curcuruto
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB)—CNR, Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy;
| | - Nadka Tz. Dintcheva
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 6, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB)—CNR, Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy;
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Xu L, Li Z, Wang L, Xu Z, Zhang S, Zhang Q. Progress in polystyrene biodegradation by insect gut microbiota. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:143. [PMID: 38530548 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03932-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is frequently used in the plastics industry. However, its structural stability and difficulty to break down lead to an abundance of plastic waste in the environment, resulting in micro-nano plastics (MNPs). As MNPs are severe hazards to both human and environmental health, it is crucial to develop innovative treatment technologies to degrade plastic waste. The biodegradation of plastics by insect gut microorganisms has gained attention as it is environmentally friendly, efficient, and safe. However, our knowledge of the biodegradation of PS is still limited. This review summarizes recent research advances on PS biodegradation by gut microorganisms/enzymes from insect larvae of different species, and schematic pathways of the degradation process are discussed in depth. Additionally, the prospect of using modern biotechnology, such as genetic engineering and systems biology, to identify novel PS-degrading microbes/functional genes/enzymes and to realize new strategies for PS biodegradation is highlighted. Challenges and limitations faced by the application of genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) and multiomics technologies in the field of plastic pollution bioremediation are also discussed. This review encourages the further exploration of the biodegradation of PS by insect gut microbes/enzymes, offering a cutting-edge perspective to identify PS biodegradation pathways and create effective biodegradation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luhui Xu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zelin Li
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zihang Xu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Shulin Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Qinghua Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China.
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Lv S, Cui K, Zhao S, Li Y, Liu R, Hu R, Zhi B, Gu L, Wang L, Wang Q, Shao Z. Continuous generation and release of microplastics and nanoplastics from polystyrene by plastic-degrading marine bacteria. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133339. [PMID: 38150757 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133339] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste released into the environments breaks down into microplastics due to weathering, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, mechanical abrasion, and animal grazing. However, little is known about the plastic fragmentation mediated by microbial degradation. Marine plastic-degrading bacteria may have a double-edged effect in removing plastics. In this study, two ubiquitous marine bacteria, Alcanivorax xenomutans and Halomonas titanicae, were confirmed to degrade polystyrene (PS) and lead to microplastic and nanoplastic generation. Biodegradation occurred during bacterial growth with PS as the sole energy source, and the formation of carboxyl and carboxylic acid groups, decreased heat resistance, generation of PS metabolic intermediates in cultures, and plastic weight loss were observed. The generation of microplastics was dynamic alongside PS biodegradation. The size of the released microplastics gradually changed from microsized plastics on the first day (1344 nm and 1480 nm, respectively) to nanoplastics on the 30th day (614 nm and 496 nm, respectively) by the two tested strains. The peak release from PS films reached 6.29 × 106 particles/L and 7.64 × 106 particles/L from degradation by A. xenomutans (Day 10) and H. titanicae (Day 5), respectively. Quantification revealed that 1.3% and 1.9% of PS was retained in the form of micro- and nanoplastics, while 4.5% and 1.9% were mineralized by A. xenomutans and H. titanicae at the end of incubation, respectively. This highlights the negative effects of microbial degradation, which results in the continuous release of numerous microplastics, especially nanoplastics, as a notable secondary pollution into marine ecosystems. Their fates in the vast aquatic system and their impact on marine lives are noted for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Lv
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Kexin Cui
- The Laboratory of Food Engineering and Nutrition, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Qingdao 266072, China
| | - Sufang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Yufei Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Renju Liu
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Rongxiang Hu
- Center for Composite Materials and Structures, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 15080, China
| | - Bin Zhi
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Li Gu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Quanfu Wang
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Zongze Shao
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen 361005, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519000, China.
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He L, Yang SS, Ding J, Chen CX, Yang F, He ZL, Pang JW, Peng BY, Zhang Y, Xing DF, Ren NQ, Wu WM. Biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate by Tenebrio molitor: Insights for polymer chain size, gut metabolome and host genes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133446. [PMID: 38219578 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133446] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET or polyester) is a commonly used plastic and also contributes to the majority of plastic wastes. Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae) are capable of biodegrading major plastic polymers but their degrading ability for PET has not been characterized based on polymer chain size molecular size, gut microbiome, metabolome and transcriptome. We verified biodegradation of commercial PET by T. molitor larvae in a previous report. Here, we reported that biodegradation of commercial PET (Mw 29.43 kDa) was further confirmed by using the δ13C signature as an indication of bioreaction, which was increased from - 27.50‰ to - 26.05‰. Under antibiotic suppression of gut microbes, the PET was still depolymerized, indicating that the host digestive enzymes could degrade PET independently. Biodegradation of high purity PET with low, medium, and high molecular weights (MW), i.e., Mw values of 1.10, 27.10, and 63.50 kDa with crystallinity 53.66%, 33.43%, and 4.25%, respectively, showed a mass reduction of > 95%, 86%, and 74% via broad depolymerization. Microbiome analyses indicated that PET diets shifted gut microbiota to three distinct structures, depending on the low, medium, and high MW. Metagenome sequencing, transcriptomic, and metabolic analyses indicated symbiotic biodegradation of PET by the host and gut microbiota. After PET was fed, the host's genes encoding degradation enzymes were upregulated, including genes encoding oxidizing, hydrolyzing, and non-specific CYP450 enzymes. Gut bacterial genes for biodegrading intermediates and nitrogen fixation also upregulated. The multiple-functional metabolic pathways for PET biodegradation ensured rapid biodegradation resulting in a half-life of PET less than 4 h with less negative impact by PET MW and crystallinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Cheng-Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Fan Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Zhi-Li He
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519080, China
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, Beijing 100089, China
| | - Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - De-Feng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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Pignataro E, Pini F, Barbanente A, Arnesano F, Palazzo A, Marsano RM. Flying toward a plastic-free world: Can Drosophila serve as a model organism to develop new strategies of plastic waste management? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169942. [PMID: 38199375 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169942] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The last century was dominated by the widespread use of plastics, both in terms of invention and increased usage. The environmental challenge we currently face is not just about reducing plastic usage but finding new ways to manage plastic waste. Recycling is growing but remains a small part of the solution. There is increasing focus on studying organisms and processes that can break down plastics, offering a modern approach to addressing the environmental crisis. Here, we provide an overview of the organisms associated with plastics biodegradation, and we explore the potential of harnessing and integrating their genetic and biochemical features into a single organism, such as Drosophila melanogaster. The remarkable genetic engineering and microbiota manipulation tools available for this organism suggest that multiple features could be amalgamated and modeled in the fruit fly. We outline feasible genetic engineering and gut microbiome engraftment strategies to develop a new class of plastic-degrading organisms and discuss of both the potential benefits and the limitations of developing such engineered Drosophila melanogaster strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Pignataro
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Francesco Pini
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Barbanente
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Fabio Arnesano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Antonio Palazzo
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - René Massimiliano Marsano
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
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9
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Xu J, Dong Y. Analysis of the gut microbiome associated to PVC biodegradation in yellow mealworms. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 272:116046. [PMID: 38309231 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116046] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
The potential of invertebrates in the biodegradation of plastic polymers such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is receiving increasing attention. The present study is aimed to identify the gut microbiome involved in this degradation in yellow mealworms, i.e., the larvae of Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus. The egested PVC polymer experienced a dramatic reduction in both number average molecular weight (Mn) and weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 99.3% and 99.6%, respectively, whereas FTIR analysis revealed chemical alterations. Mass spectrometry analysis identified two potential degradation products: phthalic acid, di(2-propylpentyl) ester and 2-Propenoic acid, tridecyl ester. Further, we used metagenomic sequencing to elucidate the response of the gut microbiome when transitioning from bran to PVC as a food source, identifying four microorganisms actively involved in PVC degradation. Additionally, metagenomic functional analysis of the gut microbiome identified 111 key gene modules that were significantly enriched. In summary, our findings suggest that yellow mealworms adapt to PVC degradation by modifying their gut microbiome both structurally and functionally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianquan Xu
- Jiangxi Modern Institute of Vocational Technology, Nan Chang 330095, China.
| | - Yongquan Dong
- College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Persistant Pollutants, Nan Chang 330063, China
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10
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Lv S, Li Y, Zhao S, Shao Z. Biodegradation of Typical Plastics: From Microbial Diversity to Metabolic Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:593. [PMID: 38203764 PMCID: PMC10778777 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010593] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic production has increased dramatically, leading to accumulated plastic waste in the ocean. Marine plastics can be broken down into microplastics (<5 mm) by sunlight, machinery, and pressure. The accumulation of microplastics in organisms and the release of plastic additives can adversely affect the health of marine organisms. Biodegradation is one way to address plastic pollution in an environmentally friendly manner. Marine microorganisms can be more adapted to fluctuating environmental conditions such as salinity, temperature, pH, and pressure compared with terrestrial microorganisms, providing new opportunities to address plastic pollution. Pseudomonadota (Proteobacteria), Bacteroidota (Bacteroidetes), Bacillota (Firmicutes), and Cyanobacteria were frequently found on plastic biofilms and may degrade plastics. Currently, diverse plastic-degrading bacteria are being isolated from marine environments such as offshore and deep oceanic waters, especially Pseudomonas spp. Bacillus spp. Alcanivoras spp. and Actinomycetes. Some marine fungi and algae have also been revealed as plastic degraders. In this review, we focused on the advances in plastic biodegradation by marine microorganisms and their enzymes (esterase, cutinase, laccase, etc.) involved in the process of biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polypropylene (PP) and highlighted the need to study plastic biodegradation in the deep sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Lv
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen 361005, China; (S.L.); (Y.L.); (S.Z.)
- School of Environmental Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Yufei Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen 361005, China; (S.L.); (Y.L.); (S.Z.)
- School of Marine Sciences, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Sufang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen 361005, China; (S.L.); (Y.L.); (S.Z.)
| | - Zongze Shao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen 361005, China; (S.L.); (Y.L.); (S.Z.)
- School of Environmental Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
- School of Marine Sciences, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519000, China
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11
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Jin J, Arciszewski J, Auclair K, Jia Z. Enzymatic polyethylene biorecycling: Confronting challenges and shaping the future. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 460:132449. [PMID: 37690195 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132449] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) is a widely used plastic known for its resistance to biodegradation, posing a significant environmental challenge. Recent advances have shed light on microorganisms and insects capable of breaking down PE and identified potential PE-degrading enzymes (PEases), hinting at the possibility of PE biorecycling. Research on enzymatic PE degradation is still in its early stages, especially compared to the progress made with polyethylene terephthalate (PET). While PET hydrolases have been extensively studied and engineered for improved performance, even the products of PEases remain mostly undefined. This Perspective analyzes the current state of enzymatic PE degradation research, highlighting obstacles in the search for bona fide PEases and suggesting areas for future exploration. A critical challenge impeding progress in this field stems from the inert nature of the C-C and C-H bonds of PE. Furthermore, breaking down PE into small molecules using only one monofunctional enzyme is theoretically impossible. Overcoming these obstacles requires identifying enzymatic pathways, which can be facilitated using emerging technologies like omics, structure-based design, and computer-assisted engineering of enzymes. Understanding the mechanisms underlying PE enzymatic biodegradation is crucial for research progress and for identifying potential solutions to the global plastic pollution crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Jin
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON KL7 3N6, Canada
| | - Jane Arciszewski
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. West, Montréal QC H3A 0B8, Canada
| | - Karine Auclair
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. West, Montréal QC H3A 0B8, Canada
| | - Zongchao Jia
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON KL7 3N6, Canada.
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12
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Wang SH, Hu SY, Li M, Liu M, Sun H, Zhao JR, Chen WT, Yuan ML. Comparative Mitogenomic Analyses of Darkling Beetles (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) Provide Evolutionary Insights into tRNA-like Sequences. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1738. [PMID: 37761878 PMCID: PMC10530909 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091738] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tenebrionidae is widely recognized owing to its species diversity and economic importance. Here, we determined the mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of three Tenebrionidae species (Melanesthes exilidentata, Anatolica potanini, and Myladina unguiculina) and performed a comparative mitogenomic analysis to characterize the evolutionary characteristics of the family. The tenebrionid mitogenomes were highly conserved with respect to genome size, gene arrangement, base composition, and codon usage. All protein-coding genes evolved under purifying selection. The largest non-coding region (i.e., control region) showed several unusual features, including several conserved repetitive fragments (e.g., A+T-rich regions, G+C-rich regions, Poly-T tracts, TATA repeat units, and longer repetitive fragments) and tRNA-like structures. These tRNA-like structures can bind to the appropriate anticodon to form a cloverleaf structure, although base-pairing is not complete. We summarized the quantity, types, and conservation of tRNA-like sequences and performed functional and evolutionary analyses of tRNA-like sequences with various anticodons. Phylogenetic analyses based on three mitogenomic datasets and two tree inference methods largely supported the monophyly of each of the three subfamilies (Stenochiinae, Pimeliinae, and Lagriinae), whereas both Tenebrioninae and Diaperinae were consistently recovered as polyphyletic. We obtained a tenebrionid mitogenomic phylogeny: (Lagriinae, (Pimeliinae, ((Tenebrioninae + Diaperinae), Stenochiinae))). Our results provide insights into the evolution and function of tRNA-like sequences in tenebrionid mitogenomes and contribute to our general understanding of the evolution of Tenebrionidae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Hao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China; (S.-H.W.); (S.-Y.H.); (M.L.); (M.L.); (H.S.); (J.-R.Z.); (W.-T.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Shi-Yun Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China; (S.-H.W.); (S.-Y.H.); (M.L.); (M.L.); (H.S.); (J.-R.Z.); (W.-T.C.)
- College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Grassland Science Education, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China; (S.-H.W.); (S.-Y.H.); (M.L.); (M.L.); (H.S.); (J.-R.Z.); (W.-T.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Min Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China; (S.-H.W.); (S.-Y.H.); (M.L.); (M.L.); (H.S.); (J.-R.Z.); (W.-T.C.)
- College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Grassland Science Education, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Hao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China; (S.-H.W.); (S.-Y.H.); (M.L.); (M.L.); (H.S.); (J.-R.Z.); (W.-T.C.)
- College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Grassland Science Education, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Jia-Rui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China; (S.-H.W.); (S.-Y.H.); (M.L.); (M.L.); (H.S.); (J.-R.Z.); (W.-T.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Wen-Ting Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China; (S.-H.W.); (S.-Y.H.); (M.L.); (M.L.); (H.S.); (J.-R.Z.); (W.-T.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Ming-Long Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China; (S.-H.W.); (S.-Y.H.); (M.L.); (M.L.); (H.S.); (J.-R.Z.); (W.-T.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Grassland Science Education, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
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Hoe Tay J, Asib N, Abd Aziz NA, Hun Tan G. Biodegradation of Expanded and Extruded Polystyrene with Different Diets by Using Zophobas atratus Larvae (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE 2023; 46:459-483. [DOI: 10.47836/pjtas.46.2.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Polystyrene waste pollutes the environment and poses a significant health risk to humans, animals, and marine ecology. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of degradation on expanded (EPS) and extruded (XPS) polystyrene with different diets using superworms (Zophobas atratus larvae) obtained in Malaysia. The growth and development of the larvae after consumption of EPS and XPS and the gut microbial community changes in response to high polystyrene consumption diets were also identified. The oatmeal, wheat bran, and cornmeal were used as supplement diets and showed significantly enhanced EPS and XPS consumption and degradation compared to sole diet treatment. Gel permeation chromatography was carried out using egested frass of Z. atratus larvae to characterize depolymerization of EPS and XPS, indicating a significant reduction in the average molecular weight and average molecular weight. The highest reduction occurred in the presence of oatmeal. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses indicated functional group changes and chemical modification occurred with depolymerization and partial oxidation of EPS and XPS. The larvae length increased, while the number of instars and duration of larvae became shorter with the addition of supplement diets. Oatmeal is predominantly effective among other supplements in assisting Z. atratus larvae with EPS and XPS degradation. The results of this study support the ubiquity of polystyrene biodegradation in Z. atratus and the next-generation sequencing studies. Kluyvera sp., Klebsiella sp., and Enterobacter sp. were found to be strongly associated with degrading EPS and XPS polystyrene with oatmeal as a supplemental diet.
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14
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Hernández-Fernández J, Cano H, Reyes AF. Valoration of the Synthetic Antioxidant Tris-(Diterbutyl-Phenol)-Phosphite (Irgafos P-168) from Industrial Wastewater and Application in Polypropylene Matrices to Minimize Its Thermal Degradation. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28073163. [PMID: 37049926 PMCID: PMC10096021 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28073163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Industrial wastewater from petrochemical processes is an essential source of the synthetic phenolic phosphite antioxidant (Irgafos P-168), which negatively affects the environment. For the determination and analysis of Irgafos P-168, DSC, HPLC-MS, and FTIR methodologies were used. Solid phase extraction (SPE) proved to be the best technique for extracting Irgafos from wastewater. HPLC-MS and SPE determined the repeatability, reproducibility, and linearity of the method and the SPE of the standards and samples. The relative standard deviations, errors, and correlation coefficients for the repeatability and reproducibility of the calibration curves were less than 4.4% and 4.2% and greater than 0.99955, respectively. The analysis of variance (ANOVA), using the Fisher method with confidence in 95% of the data, did not reveal significant differences between the mentioned parameters. The removal of the antioxidant from the wastewater by SPE showed recovery percentages higher than 91.03%, and the chemical characterization of this antioxidant by FTIR spectroscopy, DSC, TGA, and MS showed it to be structurally the same as the Irgafos P-168 molecule. The recovered Irgafos was added to the polypropylene matrix, significantly improving its oxidation times. An OIT analysis, performed using DSC, showed that the recovered Irgafos-blended polypropylene (PP) demonstrated oxidative degradation at 8 min. With the addition of the Irgafos, the oxidation time was 13 min. This increases the polypropylene’s useful life and minimizes the environmental impact of the wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín Hernández-Fernández
- Chemistry Program, Department of Natural and Exact Sciences, San Pablo Campus, University of Cartagena, Cartagena 130015, Colombia
- Chemical Engineering Program, School of Engineering, Universidad Tecnológica de Bolivar, Parque Industrial y Tecnológico Carlos Vélez Pombo, Km 1 Vía Turbaco, Turbaco 130001, Colombia
- Department of Natural and Exact Science, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla 30300, Colombia
| | - Heidis Cano
- Department of Civil and Environmental, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia
| | - Ana Fonseca Reyes
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla 081007, Colombia
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15
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Tournier V, Duquesne S, Guillamot F, Cramail H, Taton D, Marty A, André I. Enzymes' Power for Plastics Degradation. Chem Rev 2023; 123:5612-5701. [PMID: 36916764 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are everywhere in our modern way of living, and their production keeps increasing every year, causing major environmental concerns. Nowadays, the end-of-life management involves accumulation in landfills, incineration, and recycling to a lower extent. This ecological threat to the environment is inspiring alternative bio-based solutions for plastic waste treatment and recycling toward a circular economy. Over the past decade, considerable efforts have been made to degrade commodity plastics using biocatalytic approaches. Here, we provide a comprehensive review on the recent advances in enzyme-based biocatalysis and in the design of related biocatalytic processes to recycle or upcycle commodity plastics, including polyesters, polyamides, polyurethanes, and polyolefins. We also discuss scope and limitations, challenges, and opportunities of this field of research. An important message from this review is that polymer-assimilating enzymes are very likely part of the solution to reaching a circular plastic economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Tournier
- Carbios, Parc Cataroux-Bâtiment B80, 8 rue de la Grolière, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sophie Duquesne
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, TBI, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France, 135, avenue de Rangueil, F-31077 Toulouse Cedex 04, France
| | - Frédérique Guillamot
- Carbios, Parc Cataroux-Bâtiment B80, 8 rue de la Grolière, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Henri Cramail
- Université Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, LCPO, 16 Avenue Pey-Berland, 33600 Pessac, France
| | - Daniel Taton
- Université Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, LCPO, 16 Avenue Pey-Berland, 33600 Pessac, France
| | - Alain Marty
- Carbios, Parc Cataroux-Bâtiment B80, 8 rue de la Grolière, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Isabelle André
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, TBI, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France, 135, avenue de Rangueil, F-31077 Toulouse Cedex 04, France
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16
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Ali S, Bukhari DA, Rehman A. Call for biotechnological approach to degrade plastic in the era of COVID-19 pandemic. Saudi J Biol Sci 2023; 30:103583. [PMID: 36748033 PMCID: PMC9893805 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2023.103583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global issue and has become a major concern since Coronavirus disease (COVID)-19. In developing nations, landfilling and illegal waste disposal are typical ways to dispose of COVID-19-infected material. These technologies worsen plastic pollution and other human and animal health problems. Plastic degrades in light and heat, generating hazardous primary and secondary micro-plastic. Certain bacteria can degrade artificial polymers using genes, enzymes, and metabolic pathways. Microorganisms including bacteria degrade petrochemical plastics slowly. High molecular weight, strong chemical bonds, and excessive hydrophobicity reduce plastic biodegradation. There is not enough study on genes, enzymes, and bacteria-plastic interactions. Synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and bioinformatics methods have been created to biodegrade synthetic polymers. This review will focus on how microorganisms' degrading capacity can be increased using recent biotechnological techniques.
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Key Words
- BHET, bis(2-hydroxyethyl
- Bacteria
- COVID-19
- COVID-19, Coronavirus disease-19
- FTIR, Fourier-transform infrared
- HDPE, High-density polyethene
- LDPE, Low-density polyethene
- MHET, Mono(2-hydroxyethyl
- MP, Microplastics
- Microorganisms
- NP, Nanoplastics
- PE, Polyethene
- PES, Polyethylene succinate
- PET, Polyethylene terephthalate
- PP, Polypropylene
- PPE, Personal protective equipment
- PS, Polystyrene
- PVC, Polyvinyl chloride
- Plastic degradation
- Plastic pollution
- TCA, Tricarboxylic acid
- TPA, Terephthalic acid
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakir Ali
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Dilara A. Bukhari
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Rehman
- Institute of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of the Punjab, New Campus, Lahore 54590, Pakistan,Correspondence author at: Institute of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of the Punjab, New Campus, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
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17
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Nguyen NHA, Marlita M, El-Temsah YS, Hrabak P, Riha J, Sevcu A. Early stage biofilm formation on bio-based microplastics in a freshwater reservoir. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159569. [PMID: 36272481 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159569] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bio-based plastics (BP) produced from renewable biomass resources, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), is currently increasing in terms of both products and applications. However, their biodegradability and environmental fate are not yet fully understood, especially in freshwaters. Here, we present the results of an in-situ study in a freshwater reservoir, where we submerged HDPE, PLA and PHBV microscale BP (mBP) in dialysis bags to enable exchange of small organic and inorganic molecules, including nutrients, with the surrounding water. After one and two months, the bacterial biofilm that formed on each mBP was characterised by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. After two-months, Oxalobacteraceae, Pedosphaeraceae, Flavobacteriaceae (Flavobacterium) and Chitinophagaceae (Ferruginibacter) had increased by up to four times. Both these and other common members (≥1 % relative total biomass) of the microbial community were similarly abundant on all mBP. Low-abundance (0.3-1 %) bacterial taxa, however, were significantly more diverse and differed on each mBP. Notably, some low-abundance families and genera increased on specific materials, e.g. Sphingomonadaceae on HDPE, Sphingobacteriaceae on PHBV, Gemmatimonas and Crenothrix on PLA. Overall, abundant bacteria were regarded as a pioneering community, while low-abundance bacteria were more diverse and preferred mBP types in the early stages of biofilm formation on mBP. It could be influenced by the environmental conditions, where nutrient levels and low temperatures might shape the low-abundance of attached bacterial communities than the plastic material itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nhung H A Nguyen
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic.
| | - Marlita Marlita
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Yehia S El-Temsah
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Centre for Biosafety, Postboks 6418, 9294 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Pavel Hrabak
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Riha
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Sevcu
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Bendlova 1409/7, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic.
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18
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Co-diet supplementation of low density polyethylene and honeybee wax did not influence the core gut bacteria and associated enzymes of Galleria mellonella larvae (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Int Microbiol 2022; 26:397-409. [PMID: 36484909 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-022-00303-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The current plastic pollution throughout the world is a rising concern that demands the optimization of biodegradation processes. One avenue for this is to identify plastic-degrading bacteria and associated enzymes from the gut bacteria of insect models such as Tenebrio molitor, Plodia interpunctella or Galleria mellonella that have the ability to ingest and rapidly degrade polyethylene. Therefore, this study takes part in understanding the role of the gut bacteria by investigating G. mellonella as a biological model feeding with a diet based on honeybee wax mixed or not with low-density polyethylene. Gut microbiome was analyzed by high throughput 16S rRNA sequencing, and Enterococcaceae and Oxalobacteraceae were found to be the major bacterial families. Compared to the control, the supplementation of low-density polyethylene did not cause significant modification of the bacterial microbiota at community and taxa levels, suggesting bacterial microbiome resilience. The bacterial proteome analysis of gut contents was encouraging for the identification of plastic degrading enzymes such as the phenylacetaldehyde dehydrogenase which participate in styrene degradation. This study allowed a better characterization of the gut bacteria of G. mellonella and provided a basis for the further study of biodegradation of polyethylene based on the bacterial microbiota from insect guts.
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Przemieniecki SW, Katzer J, Kosewska A, Kosewska O, Sowiński P, Żeliszewska P, Kalisz B. Concept of Sustainable Demolition Process for Brickwork Buildings with Expanded Polystyrene Foam Insulation Using Mealworms of Tenebrio molitor. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 15:7516. [PMID: 36363110 PMCID: PMC9653638 DOI: 10.3390/ma15217516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The traditional demolition process for brickwork buildings results in a significant volume of mixed debris. The debris consists of ceramic bricks (and other wall elements), mortar, thermal insulation (usually expanded polystyrene or rockwool), smaller steel elements, pieces of wood, and glass. Such mixed debris is difficult to recycle. Separating thermal insulation that is "glued" by cement mortar to brickwork is probably the most difficult and time-consuming task in processing mixed debris. This task can be performed in a very different and fully "automatized" manner using Tenebrio molitor mealworms. The mealworms remove expanded polystyrene from brickwork surfaces and transform it into frass. In the paper, a research program aiming to prove the concept of using the mealworms of Tenebrio molitor for processing mixed debris is presented. The tests were conducted using two models of a three-layered brickwork wall, which is very common in Europe. The proposed approached was successful. Both types of used expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) were fully removed from multilayer wall specimens. The possibilities and limitations of the proposed processing method were discussed and analyzed. The conducted research proved that it is feasible to clean brickwork debris from the EPS using Tenebrio molitor mealworms. Differences in the speed of cleaning process regarding the type of EPS were noted. More research is needed to scale the process, and to find the best method for using frass. By using Tenebrio molitor mealworms, one can make the demolition process much cleaner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacek Katzer
- Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kosewska
- Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Olga Kosewska
- Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Paweł Sowiński
- Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Paulina Żeliszewska
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences, 30-239 Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Kalisz
- Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
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20
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Antonelli P, Duval P, Luis P, Minard G, Valiente Moro C. Reciprocal interactions between anthropogenic stressors and insect microbiota. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:64469-64488. [PMID: 35864395 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21857-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Insects play many important roles in nature due to their diversity, ecological role, and impact on agriculture or human health. They are directly influenced by environmental changes and in particular anthropic activities that constitute an important driver of change in the environmental characteristics. Insects face numerous anthropogenic stressors and have evolved various detoxication mechanisms to survive and/or resist to these compounds. Recent studies highligted the pressure exerted by xenobiotics on insect life-cycle and the important role of insect-associated bacterial microbiota in the insect responses to environmental changes. Stressor exposure can have various impacts on the composition and structure of insect microbiota that in turn may influence insect biology. Moreover, bacterial communities associated with insects can be directly or indirectly involved in detoxification processes with the selection of certain microorganisms capable of degrading xenobiotics. Further studies are needed to assess the role of insect-associated microbiota as key contributor to the xenobiotic metabolism and thus as a driver for insect adaptation to polluted habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Antonelli
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Ecologie Microbienne, 69622, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Pénélope Duval
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Ecologie Microbienne, 69622, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Patricia Luis
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Ecologie Microbienne, 69622, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Guillaume Minard
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Ecologie Microbienne, 69622, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Claire Valiente Moro
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Ecologie Microbienne, 69622, Villeurbanne, France.
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21
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Zadjelovic V, Erni-Cassola G, Obrador-Viel T, Lester D, Eley Y, Gibson MI, Dorador C, Golyshin PN, Black S, Wellington EMH, Christie-Oleza JA. A mechanistic understanding of polyethylene biodegradation by the marine bacterium Alcanivorax. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 436:129278. [PMID: 35739790 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) is one of the most recalcitrant carbon-based synthetic materials produced and, currently, the most ubiquitous plastic pollutant found in nature. Over time, combined abiotic and biotic processes are thought to eventually breakdown PE. Despite limited evidence of biological PE degradation and speculation that hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria found within the plastisphere is an indication of biodegradation, there is no clear mechanistic understanding of the process. Here, using high-throughput proteomics, we investigated the molecular processes that take place in the hydrocarbon-degrading marine bacterium Alcanivorax sp. 24 when grown in the presence of low density PE (LDPE). As well as efficiently utilising and assimilating the leachate of weathered LDPE, the bacterium was able to reduce the molecular weight distribution (Mw from 122 to 83 kg/mol) and overall mass of pristine LDPE films (0.9 % after 34 days of incubation). Most interestingly, Alcanivorax acquired the isotopic signature of the pristine plastic and induced an extensive array of metabolic pathways for aliphatic compound degradation. Presumably, the primary biodegradation of LDPE by Alcanivorax sp. 24 is possible via the production of extracellular reactive oxygen species as observed both by the material's surface oxidation and the measurement of superoxide in the culture with LDPE. Our findings confirm that hydrocarbon-biodegrading bacteria within the plastisphere may in fact have a role in degrading PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinko Zadjelovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
| | - Gabriel Erni-Cassola
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; Program Man-Society-Environment (MGU), University of Basel, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Theo Obrador-Viel
- Department of Biology, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma 07122, Spain
| | - Daniel Lester
- Polymer Characterisation Research Technology Platform, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Yvette Eley
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston B15 2TT, UK
| | - Matthew I Gibson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Cristina Dorador
- Laboratorio de Complejidad Microbiana y Ecología Funcional, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Chile; Departamento de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Recursos Biológicos, Universidad de Antofagasta Angamos 601, Antofagasta, Chile; Centre for Biotechnology & Bioengineering (CeBiB) Santiago, Chile
| | - Peter N Golyshin
- Centre for Environmental Biotechnology, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - Stuart Black
- Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Reading, UK
| | | | - Joseph A Christie-Oleza
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; Department of Biology, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma 07122, Spain.
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22
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Chen Z, Liu X, Wei W, Chen H, Ni BJ. Removal of microplastics and nanoplastics from urban waters: Separation and degradation. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 221:118820. [PMID: 35841788 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The omnipresent micro/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) in urban waters arouse great public concern. To build a MP/NP-free urban water system, enormous efforts have been made to meet this goal via separating and degrading MPs/NPs in urban waters. Herein, we comprehensively review the recent developments in the separation and degradation of MPs/NPs in urban waters. Efficient MP/NP separation techniques, such as adsorption, coagulation/flocculation, flotation, filtration, and magnetic separation are first summarized. The influence of functional materials/reagents, properties of MPs/NPs, and aquatic chemistry on the separation efficiency is analyzed. Then, MP/NP degradation methods, including electrochemical degradation, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), photodegradation, photocatalytic degradation, and biological degradation are detailed. Also, the effects of critical functional materials/organisms and operational parameters on degradation performance are discussed. At last, the current challenges and prospects in the separation, degradation, and further upcycling of MPs/NPs in urban waters are outlined. This review will potentially guide the development of next-generation technologies for MP/NP pollution control in urban waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijie Chen
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Wei Wei
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Hong Chen
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Interfacial Science and Engineering of Materials (SKLISEM), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Bing-Jie Ni
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
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23
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Beale DJ, Shah RM, Marcora A, Hulthen A, Karpe AV, Pham K, Wijffels G, Paull C. Is there any biological insight (or respite) for insects exposed to plastics? Measuring the impact on an insects central carbon metabolism when exposed to a plastic feed substrate. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 831:154840. [PMID: 35367264 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Insects used to treat organic waste streams and produce valuable protein products are increasingly exposed to plastic contaminated source material assimilating plastic carbon into organic biomass, which is pervasive and hazardous to organisms. Our understanding of this increased insect-plastic interaction remains limited and needs urgent scientific attention if plastic biodegradation and production rates of quality protein are to be improved. Herein, we investigated the biochemical impact of various plastics using three insect models. Black Soldier Fly (BSF), Mealworm (MW), and Wax Moth (WM) larva were each exposed to a plastic substrate (PET, PE, PS, Expanded PE, PP, and PLA) as the primary carbon source for five days to explore any positive metabolic benefits in terms of insect performance and plastic degradation potential. Central carbon metabolism (CCM) metabolites were analyzed via a targeted tMRM liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-QqQ-MS) method. Unique expressed pathways were observed for each insect model. When reared on PET, BSF larvae were found to have an elevated pyrimidine metabolism, while the purine metabolism pathway was strongly expressed on other plastics. BSF also exhibited a downregulated Vitamin B6 metabolism across all plastics, indicating a likely gut-symbiont breakdown. The MW and WM model insects were metabolically more active on PLA and expanded foam plastics. Further, WM exhibited an elevation in Vitamin B6 metabolism. This data suggests a positive insect-specific interaction towards certain plastic types that warrants further investigation. It is anticipated that through deeper insight into the metabolic impact and benefits afforded from certain plastics, an insect biotransformation pipeline can be established that links fit-for-purpose insect models to individual plastic types that address our growing plastic waste issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Beale
- Land and Water, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia.
| | - Rohan M Shah
- Land and Water, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Anna Marcora
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Andrew Hulthen
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Avinash V Karpe
- Land and Water, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Khoa Pham
- CSIRO Manufacturing, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Clayton, VIC 4067, Australia
| | - Gene Wijffels
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, St Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia
| | - Cate Paull
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
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