1
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Wu J, Wang J, Zeng Y, Sun X, Yuan Q, Liu L, Shen X. Biodegradation: the best solution to the world problem of discarded polymers. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2024; 11:79. [PMID: 39110313 PMCID: PMC11306678 DOI: 10.1186/s40643-024-00793-1] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The widespread use of polymers has made our lives increasingly convenient by offering a more convenient and dependable material. However, the challenge of efficiently decomposing these materials has resulted in a surge of polymer waste, posing environment and health risk. Currently, landfill and incineration treatment approaches have notable shortcomings, prompting a shift towards more eco-friendly and sustainable biodegradation approaches. Biodegradation primarily relies on microorganisms, with research focusing on both solitary bacterial strain and multi-strain communities for polymer biodegradation. Furthermore, directed evolution and rational design of enzyme have significantly contributed to the polymer biodegradation process. However, previous reviews often undervaluing the role of multi-strain communities. In this review, we assess the current state of these three significant fields of research, provide practical solutions to issues with polymer biodegradation, and outline potential future directions for the subject. Ultimately, biodegradation, whether facilitated by single bacteria, multi-strain communities, or engineered enzymes, now represents the most effective method for managing waste polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yicheng Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xinxiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Qipeng Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Ling Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Xiaolin Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China.
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2
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Han H, Song P, Jiang Y, Fan J, Khan A, Liu P, Mašek O, Li X. Biochar immobilized hydrolase degrades PET microplastics and alleviates the disturbance of soil microbial function via modulating nitrogen and phosphorus cycles. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134838. [PMID: 38850944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134838] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pose an emerging threat to soil ecological function, yet effective solutions remain limited. This study introduces a novel approach using magnetic biochar immobilized PET hydrolase (MB-LCC-FDS) to degrade soil polyethylene terephthalate microplastics (PET-MPs). MB-LCC-FDS exhibited a 1.68-fold increase in relative activity in aquatic solutions and maintained 58.5 % residual activity after five consecutive cycles. Soil microcosm experiment amended with MB-LCC-FDS observed a 29.6 % weight loss of PET-MPs, converting PET into mono(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (MHET). The generated MHET can subsequently be metabolized by soil microbiota to release terephthalic acid. The introduction of MB-LCC-FDS shifted the functional composition of soil microbiota, increasing the relative abundances of Microbacteriaceae and Skermanella while reducing Arthobacter and Vicinamibacteraceae. Metagenomic analysis revealed that MB-LCC-FDS enhanced nitrogen fixation, P-uptake and transport, and organic-P mineralization in PET-MPs contaminated soil, while weakening the denitrification and nitrification. Structural equation model indicated that changes in soil total carbon and Simpson index, induced by MB-LCC-FDS, were the driving factors for soil carbon and nitrogen transformation. Overall, this study highlights the synergistic role of magnetic biochar-immobilized PET hydrolase and soil microbiota in degrading soil PET-MPs, and enhances our understanding of the microbiome and functional gene responses to PET-MPs and MB-LCC-FDS in soil systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huawen Han
- Centre for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China
| | - Peizhi Song
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Science, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China; State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuchao Jiang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Science, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China
| | - Jingwen Fan
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Science, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China
| | - Aman Khan
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Science, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China; College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Pu Liu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Science, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China
| | - Ondřej Mašek
- UK Biochar Research Centre, School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, Crew Building, King's Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, United Kingdom.
| | - Xiangkai Li
- Centre for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Science, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province 730000, China.
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3
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Cao J, Liang H, Yang J, Zhu Z, Deng J, Li X, Elimelech M, Lu X. Depolymerization mechanisms and closed-loop assessment in polyester waste recycling. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6266. [PMID: 39048542 PMCID: PMC11269573 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50702-5] [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: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcoholysis of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) waste to produce monomers, including methanolysis to yield dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and glycolysis to generate bis-2-hydroxyethyl terephthalate (BHET), is a promising strategy in PET waste management. Here, we introduce an efficient PET-alcoholysis approach utilizing an oxygen-vacancy (Vo)-rich catalyst under air, achieving space time yield (STY) of 505.2 gDMT·gcat-1·h-1 and 957.1 gBHET·gcat-1·h-1, these results represent 51-fold and 28-fold performance enhancements compared to reactions conducted under N2. In situ spectroscopy, in combination with density functional theory calculations, elucidates the reaction pathways of PET depolymerization. The process involves O2-assisted activation of CH3OH to form CH3OH* and OOH* species at Vo-Zn2+-O-Fe3+ sites, highlighting the critical role of Vo-Zn2+-O-Fe3+ sites in ester bond activation and C-O bond cleavage. Moreover, a life cycle assessment demonstrates the viability of our approach in closed-loop recycling, achieving 56.0% energy savings and 44.5% reduction in greenhouse-gas emissions. Notably, utilizing PET textile scrap further leads to 58.4% reduction in initial total operating costs. This research offers a sustainable solution to the challenge of PET waste accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Cao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Huaxing Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomass Clean Energy, Department of Applied Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiyang Zhu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jin Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomass Clean Energy, Department of Applied Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Weinberg 2, Halle, Germany.
| | - Menachem Elimelech
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Xinglin Lu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
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4
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Cui Z, Kawada M, Hui Y, Sim S. Programming aliphatic polyester degradation by engineered bacterial spores. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.16.603759. [PMID: 39071336 PMCID: PMC11275931 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.16.603759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Enzymatic degradation of plastics is a sustainable approach to addressing the growing issue of plastic accumulation. The primary challenges for using enzymes as catalysts are issues with their stability and recyclability, further exacerbated by their costly production and delicate structures. Here, we demonstrate an approach that leverages engineered spores that display target enzymes in high density on their surface to catalyze aliphatic polyester degradation and create self-degradable materials. Engineered spores display recombinant enzymes on their surface, eliminating the need for costly purification processes. The intrinsic physical and biological characteristics of spores enable easy separation from the reaction mixture, repeated reuse, and renewal. Engineered spores displaying lipases completely degrade aliphatic polyesters and retain activity through four cycles, with full activity recovered through germination and sporulation. Directly incorporating spores into polyesters results in robust materials that are completely degradable. Our study offers a straightforward and sustainable biocatalytic approach to plastic degradation.
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5
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Mubayi V, Ahern CB, Calusinska M, O’Malley MA. Toward a Circular Bioeconomy: Designing Microbes and Polymers for Biodegradation. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1978-1993. [PMID: 38918080 PMCID: PMC11264326 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00077] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Polymer production is rapidly increasing, but there are no large-scale technologies available to effectively mitigate the massive accumulation of these recalcitrant materials. One potential solution is the development of a carbon-neutral polymer life cycle, where microorganisms convert plant biomass to chemicals, which are used to synthesize biodegradable materials that ultimately contribute to the growth of new plants. Realizing a circular carbon life cycle requires the integration of knowledge across microbiology, bioengineering, materials science, and organic chemistry, which itself has hindered large-scale industrial advances. This review addresses the biodegradation status of common synthetic polymers, identifying novel microbes and enzymes capable of metabolizing these recalcitrant materials and engineering approaches to enhance their biodegradation pathways. Design considerations for the next generation of biodegradable polymers are also reviewed, and finally, opportunities to apply findings from lignocellulosic biodegradation to the design and biodegradation of similarly recalcitrant synthetic polymers are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Mubayi
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Colleen B. Ahern
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Magdalena Calusinska
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Environmental
Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg
Institute of Science and Technology, L-4422 Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Michelle A. O’Malley
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Joint
BioEnergy Institute (JBEI), Emeryville, California 94608, United States
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6
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Huang X, Li Y, Shu Z, Huang L, Liu Q, Jiang G. High-Efficiency Degradation of PET Plastics by Glutathione S-Transferase under Mild Conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39012182 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c02132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a significant environmental concern globally. Plastics are normally considered chemically inert and resistant to biodegradation. Although many papers have reported enzyme-induced biodegradation of plastics, these studies are primarily limited to enzymes of microbial origin or engineered enzymes. This study reveals that poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET, ∼6000 Da and 100 kDa) particles and plastic bottle debris (PBD, 24.9 kDa) can be efficiently degraded by a mammal-origin natural phase II metabolic isozyme, glutathione S-transferase (GST), under mild conditions. The degradation efficiency of PET plastics reached 98.9%, with a degradation rate of 2.6 g·L-1·h-1 under ambient or physiological conditions at 1 atm. PET plastics can be degraded by GST with varying environmental or biological factors (i.e., temperature, light irradiation, pH, and presence of humic acid or protein). We suggest a novel mechanism for PET degradation other than hydrolysis, i.e., the mechanism of cleavage and release of PET plastic monomers via nitridation and oxidation. This finding also reveals a novel function of GST, previously thought to only degrade small molecules (<1000 Da). This method has been successfully applied in real human serum samples. Additionally, we have tested and confirmed the ability to degrade PET of a mammal-origin natural digestive enzyme (trypsin) and a human-derived natural metabolic enzyme (CYP450). Overall, our findings provide a potential new route to plastic pollution control and contribute to our understanding of the metabolism and fate of plastics in organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yong Li
- College of Life Science and Technology, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, China
| | - Zhao Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Li Huang
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
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7
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Aarsen C, Liguori A, Mattsson R, Sipponen MH, Hakkarainen M. Designed to Degrade: Tailoring Polyesters for Circularity. Chem Rev 2024; 124:8473-8515. [PMID: 38936815 PMCID: PMC11240263 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.4c00032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
A powerful toolbox is needed to turn the linear plastic economy into circular. Development of materials designed for mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and/or biodegradation in targeted end-of-life environment are all necessary puzzle pieces in this process. Polyesters, with reversible ester bonds, are already forerunners in plastic circularity: poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is the most recycled plastic material suitable for mechanical and chemical recycling, while common aliphatic polyesters are biodegradable under favorable conditions, such as industrial compost. However, this circular design needs to be further tailored for different end-of-life options to enable chemical recycling under greener conditions and/or rapid enough biodegradation even under less favorable environmental conditions. Here, we discuss molecular design of the polyester chain targeting enhancement of circularity by incorporation of more easily hydrolyzable ester bonds, additional dynamic bonds, or degradation catalyzing functional groups as part of the polyester chain. The utilization of polyester circularity to design replacement materials for current volume plastics is also reviewed as well as embedment of green catalysts, such as enzymes in biodegradable polyester matrices to facilitate the degradation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine
V. Aarsen
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 58, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Liguori
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 58, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department
of Chemistry “G. Ciamician”, University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Rebecca Mattsson
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 58, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mika H. Sipponen
- Department
of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Svante Arrhenius väg 16C, 106
91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Minna Hakkarainen
- Department
of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal
Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 58, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
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8
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Shalem A, Yehezkeli O, Fishman A. Enzymatic degradation of polylactic acid (PLA). Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:413. [PMID: 38985324 PMCID: PMC11236915 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13212-4] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Environmental concerns arising from the increasing use of polluting plastics highlight polylactic acid (PLA) as a promising eco-friendly alternative. PLA is a biodegradable polyester that can be produced through the fermentation of renewable resources. Together with its excellent properties, suitable for a wide range of applications, the use of PLA has increased significantly over the years and is expected to further grow. However, insufficient degradability under natural conditions emphasizes the need for the exploration of biodegradation mechanisms, intending to develop more efficient techniques for waste disposal and recycling or upcycling. Biodegradation occurs through the secretion of depolymerizing enzymes, mainly proteases, lipases, cutinases, and esterases, by various microorganisms. This review focuses on the enzymatic degradation of PLA and presents different enzymes that were isolated and purified from natural PLA-degrading microorganisms, or recombinantly expressed. The review depicts the main characteristics of the enzymes, including recent advances and analytical methods used to evaluate enantiopurity and depolymerizing activity. While complete degradation of solid PLA particles is still difficult to achieve, future research and improvement of enzyme properties may provide an avenue for the development of advanced procedures for PLA degradation and upcycling, utilizing its building blocks for further applications as envisaged by circular economy principles. KEY POINTS: • Enzymes can be promisingly utilized for PLA upcycling. • Natural and recombinant PLA depolymerases and methods for activity evaluation are summarized. • Approaches to improve enzymatic degradation of PLA are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Shalem
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 3200003, Haifa, Israel
| | - Omer Yehezkeli
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 3200003, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ayelet Fishman
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 3200003, Haifa, Israel.
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9
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Liu H, Wang M, Jin S, Guo Q, Wang S, Ni H, Lu H, Li Z. Coordinated responses of rice (Oryza sativa) to the stresses of benzotriazole ultraviolet stabilizers (BZT-UVs): Antioxidative system, photosynthetic activity, and metabolic regulation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135157. [PMID: 39002488 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Massive use of plastic products has caused their accumulation in soils, releasing large amounts of endogenous plastic additives (e.g., benzotriazole ultraviolet stabilizers, in short BZT-UVs) into terrestrial ecosystems. However, their plant toxicity is little known. Herein, we investigated the occurrence of BZT-UVs in contaminated farmland and selected three BZT-UV congeners to explore their toxic effects on the antioxidant, photosynthetic, and metabolic perturbation on rice (Oryza sativa). Results showed that the mean concentrations of ∑BZT-UVs in soil and plant samples were 180.7 ng/g dw and 156.4 ng/g dw, respectively. UV-P, UV-327 and UV-328 were the dominant BZT-UV congeners in both of soils and plants. Three BZT-UV congeners caused oxidative damages to rice in a dose-dependent manner, especially for UV-328. Functional genes involved in chlorophyll synthetases was inhibited by over 50 % under the stress of BZT-UVs, whereas those responsible for chlorophyll degradation were obviously promoted. The chlorophyll content was thus decreased, leading to a weakened photosynthesis system and an unbalanced carbon metabolism. The transcriptome and metabolome proved that the flux of carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid metabolism were obviously promoted in plants induced by BZT-UVs, which could inhibit the growth of rice. These findings offered insights into the coordinated responses of plants and advanced our understanding of potential ecological risks of BZT-UVs to terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijun Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Mengjun Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Siyuan Jin
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Qian Guo
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Shuping Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Haohua Ni
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Hainan Lu
- State Environment Protection Engineering Center for Urban Soil Contamination Control and Remediation, Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Zhiheng Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and Recycling of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China.
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10
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Guicherd M, Ben Khaled M, Guéroult M, Nomme J, Dalibey M, Grimaud F, Alvarez P, Kamionka E, Gavalda S, Noël M, Vuillemin M, Amillastre E, Labourdette D, Cioci G, Tournier V, Kitpreechavanich V, Dubois P, André I, Duquesne S, Marty A. An engineered enzyme embedded into PLA to make self-biodegradable plastic. Nature 2024; 631:884-890. [PMID: 39020178 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07709-1] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Plastic production reached 400 million tons in 2022 (ref. 1), with packaging and single-use plastics accounting for a substantial amount of this2. The resulting waste ends up in landfills, incineration or the environment, contributing to environmental pollution3. Shifting to biodegradable and compostable plastics is increasingly being considered as an efficient waste-management alternative4. Although polylactide (PLA) is the most widely used biosourced polymer5, its biodegradation rate under home-compost and soil conditions remains low6-8. Here we present a PLA-based plastic in which an optimized enzyme is embedded to ensure rapid biodegradation and compostability at room temperature, using a scalable industrial process. First, an 80-fold activity enhancement was achieved through structure-based rational engineering of a new hyperthermostable PLA hydrolase. Second, the enzyme was uniformly dispersed within the PLA matrix by means of a masterbatch-based melt extrusion process. The liquid enzyme formulation was incorporated in polycaprolactone, a low-melting-temperature polymer, through melt extrusion at 70 °C, forming an 'enzymated' polycaprolactone masterbatch. Masterbatch pellets were integrated into PLA by melt extrusion at 160 °C, producing an enzymated PLA film (0.02% w/w enzyme) that fully disintegrated under home-compost conditions within 20-24 weeks, meeting home-composting standards. The mechanical and degradation properties of the enzymated film were compatible with industrial packaging applications, and they remained intact during long-term storage. This innovative material not only opens new avenues for composters and biomethane production but also provides a feasible industrial solution for PLA degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Guicherd
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
- Carbios, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - M Ben Khaled
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | - M Guéroult
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
- Carbios, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - J Nomme
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | | | | | - P Alvarez
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | - E Kamionka
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | - S Gavalda
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
- Carbios, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - M Noël
- Carbiolice, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - M Vuillemin
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | - E Amillastre
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | - D Labourdette
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | - G Cioci
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | | | - V Kitpreechavanich
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - P Dubois
- Center of Innovation and Research in Materials & Polymers, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - I André
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France.
| | - S Duquesne
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | - A Marty
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France.
- Carbios, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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11
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Svoboda R, Machotová J. How Depolymerization-Based Plasticization Affects the Process of Cold Crystallization in Poly(P-Dioxanone). Macromol Rapid Commun 2024:e2400369. [PMID: 38923170 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202400369] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The self-plasticization, i.e., the increase in the polymer chains' mobility by including its monomer, has a major impact on a polymer's structural, thermal, and mechanical properties. In this study, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), optical and Raman microscopies, thermo-mechanical analysis (TMA), size exclusion chromatography equipped with a multi-angle light scattering detector (SEC-MALS), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) are used to investigate the effect of thermally induced self-plasticization of poly-(p-dioxanone), PDX, on the crystal growths from the amorphous and molten states. Significant changes in the crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of PDX are found only for samples self-plasticized at the depolymerization temperature (Td) above 150 °C. The intense self-plasticization leads to the decrease of the crystallization temperature, increase of the crystal growth rapidity, disappearance of the distinct α→α' polymorphic transition, reduction of the overall melting temperature, and segregation of the redundant monomer. Although the morphology of the crystalline phase has a major impact on the mechanical properties of PDX, the self-plasticization itself does not seem to result in any major changes in the magnitude, localization, or morphology of formed crystallites (these are primarily driven by the temperature of crystal growth). The manifestation of the variable activation energy concept is discussed for the present crystallization data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Svoboda
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Pardubice, Studentská 573, Pardubice, 53210, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Machotová
- Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Macromolecular Materials, Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Pardubice, Studentská 573, Pardubice, 53210, Czech Republic
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12
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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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13
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Liu W, Wang S, He S, Shi Y, Hou C, Jiang X, Song Y, Zhang T, Zhang Y, Shen Z. Enzyme modified biodegradable plastic preparation and performance in anaerobic co-digestion with food waste. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 401:130739. [PMID: 38670291 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.130739] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
A modified biodegradable plastic (PLA/PBAT) was developed by through covalent bonding with proteinase K, porcine pancreatic lipase, or amylase, and was then investigated in anaerobic co-digestion mixed with food waste. Fluorescence microscope validated that enzymes could remain stable in modified the plastic, even after co-digestion. The results of thermophilic anaerobic co-digestion showed that, degradation of the plastic modified with Proteinase K increased from 5.21 ± 0.63 % to 29.70 ± 1.86 % within 30 days compare to blank. Additionally, it was observed that the cumulative methane production increased from 240.9 ± 0.5 to 265.4 ± 1.8 mL/gVS, and the methane production cycle was shortened from 24 to 20 days. Interestingly, the kinetic model suggested that the modified the plastic promoted the overall hydrolysis progression of anaerobic co-digestion, possibly as a result of the enhanced activities of Bacteroidota and Thermotogota. In conclusion, under anaerobic co-digestion, the modified the plastic not only achieved effective degradation but also facilitated the co-digestion process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Liu
- Institute of New Rural Development, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201804, P. R. China
| | - Shizhuo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China; Shanghai Research Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
| | - Songting He
- Institute of New Rural Development, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201804, P. R. China
| | - Yang Shi
- Institute of New Rural Development, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201804, P. R. China
| | - Cheng Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China; Shanghai Research Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
| | - Xintong Jiang
- Institute of New Rural Development, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201804, P. R. China
| | - Yuanbo Song
- Institute of New Rural Development, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201804, P. R. China
| | - Tao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China; Shanghai Research Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
| | - Yalei Zhang
- Institute of New Rural Development, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201804, P. R. China; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Rural Toilet and SewageTreatment Technology, Ministry of Agricultureand Rural Affairs, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, P. R. China; Shanghai Research Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
| | - Zheng Shen
- Institute of New Rural Development, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201804, P. R. China; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Rural Toilet and SewageTreatment Technology, Ministry of Agricultureand Rural Affairs, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, P. R. China; Shanghai Research Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Safety, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China.
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14
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Chen G, Wang K, Chen P, Cai D, Shao Y, Xia R, Li C, Wang H, Ren F, Cheng X, Yu Y. Fully Biodegradable Packaging Films for Fresh Food Storage Based on Oil-Infused Bacterial Cellulose. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2400826. [PMID: 38569510 PMCID: PMC11187918 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Fully biodegradable packaging materials are demanded to resolve the issue of plastic pollution. However, the fresh food storage performance of biodegradable materials is generally much lower than that of plastics due to their high permeability, microbial friendliness, and limited stretchability and transparency. Here a biodegradable packaging material is reported with high fresh food storage performance based on an oil-infused bacterial cellulose (OBC) porous film. The oil infusion significantly improved cellulose's food-keeping performance by reducing its gas permeability, increasing its stretchability and transparency, and enabling the active release of green vapor-phase preservative molecules, while maintaining its intrinsically high degradability. Strawberries stored in a container with the OBC lid at 23 °C after 5 days exhibited a moldy rate of 0%, in contrast to the 100% moldy rate of those stored by poly(ethylene). Enhanced storage performance is also obtained on tomatoes, pork, and shrimp. The OBC film is naturally degraded after being buried in wet soil at 30 °C for 9 days, identical to the degradation rate of bacterial cellulose. The liquid seal strategy broadly applies to different celluloses, providing a general option for developing cellulose-based biodegradable packaging materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoli Chen
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Kaimin Wang
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Pinghang Chen
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Daohang Cai
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Yan Shao
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Rui Xia
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Chun Li
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Haochuan Wang
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Fuzeng Ren
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Xing Cheng
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Yanhao Yu
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
- Institute of Innovative MaterialsSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
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15
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Qu M, Guo Y, Cai Y, Nie Z, Zhang C. Upgrading Polyolefin Plastic Waste into Multifunctional Porous Graphene using Silicone-Assisted Direct Laser Writing. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2310273. [PMID: 38794868 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The widespread use of plastics, especially polyolefin including polyethylene and polypropylene, has led to severe environmental crises. Chemical recycling, a promising solution for extracting value from plastic waste, however, is underutilized due to its complexity. Here, a simple approach, silicone-assisted direct laser writing (SA-DLW) is developed, to upgrade polyolefin plastic waste into multifunctional porous graphene, called laser-induced graphene (LIG). This method involves infiltrating polyolefins with silicone, which retards ablation during the DLW process and supplies additional carbon atoms, as confirmed by experimental and molecular dynamic results. A remarkable conversion yield of 38.3% is achieved. The upgraded LIG exhibited a porous structure and high conductivity, which is utilized for the fabrication of diverse energy and electronic devices with commendable performance. Furthermore, the SA-DLW technique is versatile for upgrading plastic waste in various types and forms. Upgrading plastic waste in the form of fabric has significantly simplified pre-treatment. Finally, a wearable flex sensor is fabricated on the non-woven fabric of a discarded medical mask, which is applied for gesture monitoring. This work offers a simple but effective solution to upgrade plastic waste into valuable products, contributing to the mitigation of environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglong Qu
- College of Engineering, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210031, China
| | - Yani Guo
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
- Sinopec Nanjing Engineering & Construction Incorporation, Nanjing, 210049, China
| | - Yahan Cai
- College of Engineering, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210031, China
| | - Zhengwei Nie
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- College of Engineering, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210031, China
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16
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Zhang Y, He R, Sun Y, Zhao J, Zhang X, Wang J, Bildyukevich AV. Influence of microplastics and environmentally persistent free radicals on the ability of biochar components to promote degradation of antibiotics by activated peroxymonosulfate. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 349:123827. [PMID: 38574947 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123827] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in sludge can affect the ability of biochar-activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade antibiotics. In this work, biochar was prepared by mixing sludge and polystyrene (PS) through hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and high-temperature pyrolysis processes. The resulting biochar was used to activate PMS to degrade ofloxacin (OFX), levofloxacin (LEV), and pefloxacin (PFX). The addition of PS significantly enhanced the ability of biochar/PMS to degrade antibiotics and the levels of environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs, 4.59 × 1020 spin/g) due to the decomposition of PS. The addition of PS resulted in a slight decrease in the specific surface area of biochar (2-3 m2/g on average), but a significant increase in the concentration of EPFRs increased the removal efficiency. The activation of PMS by biochar is dominated by free radicals, accounting for about 70%, in which SO4•- and •OH contribute the most and O2•- the least. However, 1O2 contributes 15-20% to the degradation of antibiotics in non-free radical processes. Overall, the process of biochar/PMS degradation of antibiotics is mainly dominated by free radicals, and the effect of non-free radicals is not obvious. Both hydrochar and pyrocarbon samples showed good hydrophilicity, and this property should improve the ability of active sites on biochar to degrade antibiotics. In the HTC process, PS can decompose during hydrochar preparation, with a maximum reduction value of 40.09%. The three-dimension excitation emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy (3D-EEM) and total organic carbon (TOC) results show that the protein content in sludge plays a major role in reducing PS, with little effect of polysaccharide and SiO2. There are six to seven degradation intermediates of quinolone antibiotics, which are eventually degraded into CO2, H2O, and inorganic substances. The regeneration experiment showed good reusability of hydrochar and pyrocarbon, further demonstrating the suitability of biochar for the degradation of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhuo Zhang
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environmental and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, International Joint Laboratory on Key Techniques in Water Treatment, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, PR China.
| | - Rui He
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environmental and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, International Joint Laboratory on Key Techniques in Water Treatment, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, PR China.
| | - Yutai Sun
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environmental and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, International Joint Laboratory on Key Techniques in Water Treatment, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, PR China.
| | - Jing Zhao
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environmental and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, International Joint Laboratory on Key Techniques in Water Treatment, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, PR China.
| | - Xiaozhuan Zhang
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environmental and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, International Joint Laboratory on Key Techniques in Water Treatment, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, PR China.
| | - Jiqin Wang
- School of Environment, Henan Normal University, Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environmental and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, International Joint Laboratory on Key Techniques in Water Treatment, Xinxiang, Henan, 453007, PR China.
| | - Alexandr V Bildyukevich
- Institute of Physical Organic Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, 220072, Minsk, Surganov str. 13, Belarus.
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17
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Li Y, Yin D, Lee SY, Lv Y. Engineered polymer nanoparticles as artificial chaperones facilitating the selective refolding of denatured enzymes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2403049121. [PMID: 38691587 PMCID: PMC11087784 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2403049121] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Molecular chaperones assist in protein refolding by selectively binding to proteins in their nonnative states. Despite progress in creating artificial chaperones, these designs often have a limited range of substrates they can work with. In this paper, we present molecularly imprinted flexible polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) designed as customizable biomimetic chaperones. We used model proteins such as cytochrome c, laccase, and lipase to screen polymeric monomers and identify the most effective formulations, offering tunable charge and hydrophobic properties. Utilizing a dispersed phase imprinting approach, we employed magnetic beads modified with destabilized whole-protein as solid-phase templates. This process involves medium exchange facilitated by magnetic pulldowns, resulting in the synthesis of nanoMIPs featuring imprinted sites that effectively mimic chaperone cavities. These nanoMIPs were able to selectively refold denatured enzymes, achieving up to 86.7% recovery of their activity, significantly outperforming control samples. Mechanistic studies confirmed that nanoMIPs preferentially bind denatured rather than native enzymes, mimicking natural chaperone interactions. Multifaceted analyses support the functionality of nanoMIPs, which emulate the protective roles of chaperones by selectively engaging with denatured proteins to inhibit aggregation and facilitate refolding. This approach shows promise for widespread use in protein recovery within biocatalysis and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, National Energy Research and Development Center for Biorefinery, International Joint Bioenergy Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
- Metabolic and Biomolecular Engineering National Research Laboratory and Systems Metabolic Engineering and Systems Healthcare Cross-Generation Collaborative Laboratory, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 four), Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Deping Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, National Energy Research and Development Center for Biorefinery, International Joint Bioenergy Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
| | - Sang Yup Lee
- Metabolic and Biomolecular Engineering National Research Laboratory and Systems Metabolic Engineering and Systems Healthcare Cross-Generation Collaborative Laboratory, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 four), Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
- KAIST Institute for the BioCentury, KAIST Institute for AI, BioProcess Engineering Research Center, BioInformatics Research Center, and Graduate School of Engineering Biology, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongqin Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, National Energy Research and Development Center for Biorefinery, International Joint Bioenergy Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
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18
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Nolte RJM, Elemans JAAW. Artificial Processive Catalytic Systems. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202304230. [PMID: 38314967 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202304230] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Processive catalysts remain attached to a substrate and perform multiple rounds of catalysis. They are abundant in nature. This review highlights artificial processive catalytic systems, which can be divided into (A) catalytic rings that move along a polymer chain, (B) catalytic pores that hold polymer chains and decompose them, (C) catalysts that remain attached to and move around a cyclic substrate via supramolecular interactions, and (D) anchored catalysts that remain in contact with a substrate via multiple catalytic interactions (see frontispiece).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roeland J M Nolte
- Radboud University, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Heyendaalseweg 125, 6525AJ, Nijmegen, The, Netherlands
| | - Johannes A A W Elemans
- Radboud University, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Heyendaalseweg 125, 6525AJ, Nijmegen, The, Netherlands
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19
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Crystal Thew XE, Lo SC, Ramanan RN, Tey BT, Huy ND, Chien Wei O. Enhancing plastic biodegradation process: strategies and opportunities. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2024; 44:477-494. [PMID: 36788704 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2023.2170861] [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: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Plastic biodegradation has emerged as a sustainable approach and green alternative in handling the ever-increasing accumulation of plastic wastes in the environment. The complete biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate is one of the most recent breakthroughs in the field of plastic biodegradation. Despite the success, the effective and complete biodegradation of a wide variety of plastics is still far from the practical implementation, and an on-going effort has been mainly devoted to the exploration of novel microorganisms and enzymes for plastic biodegradation. However, alternative strategies which enhance the existing biodegradation process should not be neglected in the continuous advancement of this field. Thus, this review highlights various strategies which have shown to improve the biodegradation of plastics, which include the pretreatment of plastics using UV irradiation, thermal, or chemical treatments to increase the susceptibility of plastics toward microbial action. Alternative pretreatment strategies are also suggested and compared with the existing techniques. Besides, the effects of additives such as pro-oxidants, natural polymers, and surfactants on plastic biodegradation are discussed. In addition, considerations governing the biodegradation performance, such as the formulation of biodegradation medium, cell-free biocatalysis, and physico-chemical properties of plastics, are addressed. Lastly, the challenges and future prospects for the advancement of plastic biodegradation are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Er Crystal Thew
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Sewn Cen Lo
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | | | - Beng Ti Tey
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
- Advanced Engineering Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Nguyen Duc Huy
- Institute of Biotechnology, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Ooi Chien Wei
- Chemical Engineering Discipline, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
- Advanced Engineering Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
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20
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Wu J, Cortes KAF, Li C, Wang Y, Guo C, Momenzadeh K, Yeritsyan D, Hanna P, Lechtig A, Nazarian A, Lin SJ, Kaplan DL. Tuning the Biodegradation Rate of Silk Materials via Embedded Enzymes. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:2607-2615. [PMID: 38478959 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01758] [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] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Conventional thinking when designing biodegradable materials and devices is to tune the intrinsic properties and morphological features of the material to regulate their degradation rate, modulating traditional factors such as molecular weight and crystallinity. Since regenerated silk protein can be directly thermoplastically molded to generate robust dense silk plastic-like materials, this approach afforded a new tool to control silk degradation by enabling the mixing of a silk-degrading protease into bulk silk material prior to thermoplastic processing. Here we demonstrate the preparation of these silk-based devices with embedded silk-degrading protease to modulate the degradation based on the internal presence of the enzyme to support silk degradation, as opposed to the traditional surface degradation for silk materials. The degradability of these silk devices with and without embedded protease XIV was assessed both in vitro and in vivo. Ultimately, this new process approach provides direct control of the degradation lifetime of the devices, empowered through internal digestion via water-activated proteases entrained and stabilized during the thermoplastic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqi Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Kareen A Fajardo Cortes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Chunmei Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Yushu Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Chengchen Guo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Kaveh Momenzadeh
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., RN 115, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Diana Yeritsyan
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., RN 115, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Philip Hanna
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., RN 115, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Aron Lechtig
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., RN 115, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Ara Nazarian
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., RN 115, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Samuel J Lin
- Divisions of Plastic Surgery and Otolaryngology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
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21
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Yu H, Liu L, Yin R, Jayapurna I, Wang R, Xu T. Mapping Composition Evolution through Synthesis, Purification, and Depolymerization of Random Heteropolymers. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:6178-6188. [PMID: 38387070 PMCID: PMC10921401 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Random heteropolymers (RHPs) consisting of three or more comonomers have been routinely used to synthesize functional materials. While increasing the monomer variety diversifies the side-chain chemistry, this substantially expands the sequence space and leads to ensemble-level sequence heterogeneity. Most studies have relied on monomer composition and simulated sequences to design RHPs, but the questions remain unanswered regarding heterogeneities within each RHP ensemble and how closely these simulated sequences reflect the experimental outcomes. Here, we quantitatively mapped out the evolution of monomer compositions in four-monomer-based RHPs throughout a design-synthesis-purification-depolymerization process. By adopting a Jaacks method, we first determined 12 reactivity ratios directly from quaternary methacrylate RAFT copolymerization experiments to account for the influences of competitive monomer addition and the reversible activation/deactivation equilibria. The reliability of in silico analysis was affirmed by a quantitative agreement (<4% difference) between the simulated RHP compositions and the experimental results. Furthermore, we mapped out the conformation distribution within each ensemble in different solvents as a function of monomer chemistry, composition, and segmental characteristics via high-throughput computation based on self-consistent field theory (SCFT). These comprehensive studies confirmed monomer composition as a viable design parameter to engineer RHP-based functional materials as long as the reactivity ratios are accurately determined and the livingness of RHP synthesis is ensured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yu
- California
Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Luofu Liu
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Ruilin Yin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California,
Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Ivan Jayapurna
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Rui Wang
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Ting Xu
- California
Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California,
Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Departent
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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22
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Tan Q, Chen W, Liu H, Yan W, Huang X, Li Y. The programmed sequence-based oxygenase screening for polypropylene degradation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133173. [PMID: 38061126 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133173] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Enzymatic degradation of plastic is an effective means of plastic recycling and pollution control. However, the strong chemical inertness of polypropylene plastic (PP) severely impedes its oxidative cleavage, making it resistant to degradation. In this study, based on sequence screening of Hidden Markov Model (HMM), a dioxygenase (HIS1) was identified and characterized to be effective in PP oxidation. Various kinds of PP products, including plastic films, microplastics, and disposable water cups or bags, were HIS1-degraded with cracks and holes on the surface. The hydrophobic binding was the primary force driving oxidative degradation in the specific cavity of HIS1. The discovery of HIS1 achieved a zero breakthrough in PP biodegradation, providing a promising candidate for the selection and evolution of degrading enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianlong Tan
- Life and Science Department, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China; National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China
| | - Wentao Chen
- Life and Science Department, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China; National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Life and Science Department, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China; National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China
| | - Wende Yan
- Life and Science Department, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China; National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China; Laboratory of Urban Forest Ecology of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China
| | - Xiu Huang
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yong Li
- Life and Science Department, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China; National Engineering Laboratory for Applied Technology of Forestry & Ecology in South China, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China; Laboratory of Urban Forest Ecology of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan 410004, China.
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23
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James BD, Ward CP, Hahn ME, Thorpe SJ, Reddy CM. Minimizing the Environmental Impacts of Plastic Pollution through Ecodesign of Products with Low Environmental Persistence. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2024; 12:1185-1194. [PMID: 38273987 PMCID: PMC10806995 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c05534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
While plastic pollution threatens ecosystems and human health, the use of plastic products continues to increase. Limiting its harm requires design strategies for plastic products informed by the threats that plastics pose to the environment. Thus, we developed a sustainability metric for the ecodesign of plastic products with low environmental persistence and uncompromised performance. To do this, we integrated the environmental degradation rate of plastic into established material selection strategies, deriving material indices for environmental persistence. By comparing indices for the environmental impact of on-the-market plastics and proposed alternatives, we show that accounting for the environmental persistence of plastics in design could translate to societal benefits of hundreds of millions of dollars for a single consumer product. Our analysis identifies the materials and their properties that deserve development, adoption, and investment to create functional and less environmentally impactful plastic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan D. James
- Department
of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods
Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
- Department
of Biology, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Collin P. Ward
- Department
of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods
Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Mark E. Hahn
- Department
of Biology, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
| | - Steven J. Thorpe
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of Toronto; Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E4, Canada
| | - Christopher M. Reddy
- Department
of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods
Hole Oceanographic Institution; Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, United States
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24
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Lohmann V, Jones GR, Truong NP, Anastasaki A. The thermodynamics and kinetics of depolymerization: what makes vinyl monomer regeneration feasible? Chem Sci 2024; 15:832-853. [PMID: 38239674 PMCID: PMC10793647 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc05143a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Depolymerization is potentially a highly advantageous method of recycling plastic waste which could move the world closer towards a truly circular polymer economy. However, depolymerization remains challenging for many polymers with all-carbon backbones. Fundamental understanding and consideration of both the kinetics and thermodynamics are essential in order to develop effective new depolymerization systems that could overcome this problem, as the feasibility of monomer generation can be drastically altered by tuning the reaction conditions. This perspective explores the underlying thermodynamics and kinetics governing radical depolymerization of addition polymers by revisiting pioneering work started in the mid-20th century and demonstrates its connection to exciting recent advances which report depolymerization reaching near-quantitative monomer regeneration at much lower temperatures than seen previously. Recent catalytic approaches to monomer regeneration are also explored, highlighting that this nascent chemistry could potentially revolutionize depolymerization-based polymer recycling in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Lohmann
- Laboratory of Polymeric Materials, Department of Materials, ETH Zürich Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 5 8093 Zürich Switzerland
| | - Glen R Jones
- Laboratory of Polymeric Materials, Department of Materials, ETH Zürich Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 5 8093 Zürich Switzerland
| | - Nghia P Truong
- Laboratory of Polymeric Materials, Department of Materials, ETH Zürich Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 5 8093 Zürich Switzerland
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University 399 Royal Parade Parkville VIC 3152 Australia
| | - Athina Anastasaki
- Laboratory of Polymeric Materials, Department of Materials, ETH Zürich Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 5 8093 Zürich Switzerland
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25
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Greene AF, Abbel R, Vaidya AA, Tanjay Q, Chen Y, Risani R, Saggese T, Barbier M, Petcu M, West M, Theobald B, Gaugler E, Parker K. Environmentally Benign Fast-Degrading Conductive Composites. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:455-465. [PMID: 38147683 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c01077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
An environmentally benign conductive composite that rapidly degrades in the presence of warm water via enzyme-mediated hydrolysis is described. This represents the first time that hydrolytic enzymes have been immobilized onto eco-friendly conductive carbon sources with the express purpose of degrading the encapsulating biodegradable plastic. Amano Lipase (AL)-functionalized carbon nanofibers (CNF) were compounded with polycaprolactone (PCL) to produce the composite film CNFAL-PCL (thickness ∼ 600 μm; CNFAL = 20.0 wt %). To serve as controls, films of the same thickness were also produced, including CNF-AL5-PCL (CNF mixed with AL and PCL; CNF = 19.2 wt % and AL = 5.00 wt %), CNF-PCL (CNF = 19.2 wt %), ALx-PCL (AL = x = 1.00 or 5.00 wt %), and PCL. The electrical performance of the CNF-containing composites was measured, and conductivities of 14.0 ± 2, 22.0 ± 5, and 31.0 ± 6 S/m were observed for CNFAL-PCL, CNF-AL5-PCL, and CNF-PCL, respectively. CNFAL-PCL and control films were degraded in phosphate buffer (2.00 mg/mL film/buffer) at 50 °C, and their average percent weight loss (Wtavg%) was recorded over time. After 3 h CNFAL-PCL degraded to a Wtavg% of 90.0% and had completely degraded after 8 h. This was considerably faster than CNF-AL5-PCL, which achieved a total Wtavg% of 34.0% after 16 days, and CNF-PCL, which was with a Wtavg% of 7.00% after 16 days. Scanning electron microscopy experiments (SEM) found that CNFAL-PCL has more open pores on its surface and that it fractures faster during degradation experiments which exposes the interior enzyme to water. An electrode made from CNFAL-PCL was fabricated and attached to an AL5-PCL support to form a fast-degrading thermal sensor. The resistance was measured over five cycles where the temperature was varied between 15.0-50.0 °C. The sensor was then degraded fully in buffer at 50 °C over a 48 h period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelique F Greene
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Robert Abbel
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Alankar A Vaidya
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Queenie Tanjay
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Yi Chen
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Regis Risani
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Taryn Saggese
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Maxime Barbier
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Miruna Petcu
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Mark West
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Beatrix Theobald
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Eva Gaugler
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
| | - Kate Parker
- Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, Ti̅tokorangi Drive, Rotorua, New Zealand 3010
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26
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Zhuo M, Chen Z, Liu X, Wei W, Shen Y, Ni BJ. A broad horizon for sustainable catalytic oxidation of microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 340:122835. [PMID: 37931676 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122835] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have attracted tremendous attention due to their widespread appearance in the environment and biota, and their adverse effects on organisms. Since plastics are substantially produced to meet human needs, primary and secondary MPs are extensively trapped in wastewater treatment plants, freshwater, drinking water, ocean, air, and soil. The serious MPs pollution calls for efficient treatment strategies Herein, we discuss three catalytic processes (photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and biocatalysis) for the sustainable management of MPs, and the relevant catalytic mechanisms are clarified. For photocatalysis, three categories (organic, inorganic, hybrid) of photocatalysts are listed, with degradation efficiency of 23%-100%. Next, relative impact factors on photocatalysis, such as characteristics of MPs and photocatalysts, are discussed. Then, some promising electrocatalysts for the degradation/conversion of (micro)plastics and standard electrolyzer designs are briefly introduced. This electrocatalytic method has achieved over 77% of Faradaic efficiency. Next, potential organisms with abundant biocatalysts for degrading different types of MPs are reviewed. Advances in three bioremediation techniques including biositimulation, bioaugmentation, and biosurfactant are outlined. Lastly, perspectives are put forward to promote scientific development in solving environmental issues on MPs pollution in broad fields. This paper provides insights into the development of next-generation techniques for MPs pollution management in a sustainable manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoshui Zhuo
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - 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
| | - Yansong Shen
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Bing-Jie Ni
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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27
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Bi S, Zhang Z, Yang Z, Shen Z, Cai J, Hu J, Jin H, Qiu T, Yu P, Tan B. Protein modified cellulose nanocrystals on reinforcement and self-driven biodegradation of aliphatic polyester. Carbohydr Polym 2023; 322:121312. [PMID: 37839828 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121312] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Due to the highly environment-dependent biodegradation and uncontrolled degradation period, the long-run feasibility and effectiveness of biodegradable polymers are extensively questioned to solve plastics waste accumulation and pollution problems. This work physically incorporated lipase PS from Burkholderia cepacian on cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and embedded it in polycaprolactone (PCL) to construct stable and controllable interfacial microenvironment between CNC and PCL for the reinforcement and controllable self-driven biodegradation. The physical adsorption of lipase PS on CNC was studied by monitoring the surface charge and particle size. FT-IR spectra confirmed the successful incorporation of lipase PS and CNC. Compared with CNC, protein-modified CNC had a higher maximum thermal decomposition temperature of 345 °C and lower interfacial tension of 11 mN/m with PCL which provided PCL composites with higher nucleation efficiency and tensile elongation of 1086 % at break. In addition, only 0.67 % embedded lipase PS completely hydrolyzed PCL membranes in <140 h. The post-compression molding at 80-100 °C had negligible influence on the lipase activity, which indicated that CNC could protect the lipase from inactivation in polymer extrusion and compression. This work also highlighted protein-modified CNC as a new technology for polymer reinforcement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Bi
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; New Materials and Green Manufacturing Talent Introduction and Innovation Demonstration Base, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; Hubei Longzhong Laboratory, Xiangyang, Hubei 441000, China.
| | - Zhuang Zhang
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Zhenzhen Yang
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; New Materials and Green Manufacturing Talent Introduction and Innovation Demonstration Base, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Zitong Shen
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Jiahui Cai
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Jintao Hu
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Haoxiang Jin
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Tianhao Qiu
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China
| | - Peng Yu
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Green Materials for Light Industry, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; New Materials and Green Manufacturing Talent Introduction and Innovation Demonstration Base, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430068, China; Hubei Longzhong Laboratory, Xiangyang, Hubei 441000, China
| | - Bin Tan
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Fujian University of Technology, Fuzhou 350011, China
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28
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Maroju PA, Ganesan R, Ray Dutta J. Probing the Effects of Antimicrobial-Lysozyme Derivatization on Enzymatic Degradation of Poly(ε-caprolactone) Film and Fiber. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2300296. [PMID: 37555590 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300296] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Surface derivatization is essential for incorporating unique functionalities into biodegradable polymers. Nonetheless, its precise effects on enzymatic biodegradation still lack comprehensive understanding. In this study, a facile solution-based method is employed to surface derivatize poly(ε-caprolactone) films and electrospun fibers with lysozyme, aiming to impart antimicrobial properties and examine the impact on enzymatic degradation. The derivatized films and fibers have shown high antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Through gravimetric analysis, it is observed that the degradation rate experiences a slight decrease upon lysozyme derivatization. However, this reduction is effectively countered by the inclusion of Tween-20, as affirmed by isothermal titration calorimetry. Comparing films and fibers, the latter undergoes degradation at a more accelerated pace, coupled with a rapid decline in molecular weight. This study provides valuable insights into the factors influencing the degradation of surface-derivatized biopolymers through electrospinning, offering a simple strategy to mitigate biomaterial-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranay Amruth Maroju
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Jawahar Nagar, Kapra Mandal, Medchal District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India
| | - Ramakrishnan Ganesan
- Department of Chemistry, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Jawahar Nagar, Kapra Mandal, Medchal District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India
| | - Jayati Ray Dutta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Jawahar Nagar, Kapra Mandal, Medchal District, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500078, India
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29
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Weng Y, Dunn CB, Qiang Z, Ren J. Immobilization of Protease K with ZIF-8 for Enhanced Stability in Polylactic Acid Melt Processing and Catalytic Degradation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023. [PMID: 37971900 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c11979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based polymers for improving environmental sustainability of our society. However, the limited degradation rate and environmental conditions for PLA-based products remain significant challenges for their broader use in various applications. While Proteinase K (Pro K) from Tritirachium album has been demonstrated to efficiently degrade PLA, its autocatalytic degradation function in composite films is underexplored. Here, this work reports a strategy that encapsulates Pro K with zeolitic imidazole framework-8 (ZIF-8) in situ, combining a PLA matrix to prepare Pro K@ZIF-8/PLA films through solvent casting. The method is scalable and commercially viable, and the pH and thermal stability of the Pro K enzyme are significantly enhanced after immobilization. The enzyme can retain 61.8% of its initial activity after annealing at 160 °C for 10 min, allowing for its use in the melt processing of filler-containing PLA films. As a result, Pro K@ZIF-8/PLA films in buffer solutions exhibit stable degradation rates, which can be extended to PLA decomposition in acidic environments. Moreover, the enzyme in Pro K@ZIF-8/PLA films prepared by thermoforming remains active sufficiently to degrade PLA with a weight loss of up to 15% in 2 weeks. These results further indicate that our strategy can be broadly applicable for melt processing and controlled degradation of PLA materials with immobilized enzymes, allowing for its transformative impact for promoting environmental sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Weng
- Institute of Nano and Biopolymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, China
| | - Carmen B Dunn
- School of Polymer Science and Engineering, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406, United States
| | - Zhe Qiang
- School of Polymer Science and Engineering, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406, United States
| | - Jie Ren
- Institute of Nano and Biopolymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, China
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30
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Yang ZJ, Shao Q, Jiang Y, Jurich C, Ran X, Juarez RJ, Yan B, Stull SL, Gollu A, Ding N. Mutexa: A Computational Ecosystem for Intelligent Protein Engineering. J Chem Theory Comput 2023; 19:7459-7477. [PMID: 37828731 PMCID: PMC10653112 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.3c00602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Protein engineering holds immense promise in shaping the future of biomedicine and biotechnology. This Review focuses on our ongoing development of Mutexa, a computational ecosystem designed to enable "intelligent protein engineering". In this vision, researchers will seamlessly acquire sequences of protein variants with desired functions as biocatalysts, therapeutic peptides, and diagnostic proteins through a finely-tuned computational machine, akin to Amazon Alexa's role as a versatile virtual assistant. The technical foundation of Mutexa has been established through the development of a database that combines and relates enzyme structures and their respective functions (e.g., IntEnzyDB), workflow software packages that enable high-throughput protein modeling (e.g., EnzyHTP and LassoHTP), and scoring functions that map the sequence-structure-function relationship of proteins (e.g., EnzyKR and DeepLasso). We will showcase the applications of these tools in benchmarking the convergence conditions of enzyme functional descriptors across mutants, investigating protein electrostatics and cavity distributions in SAM-dependent methyltransferases, and understanding the role of nonelectrostatic dynamic effects in enzyme catalysis. Finally, we will conclude by addressing the future steps and fundamental challenges in our endeavor to develop new Mutexa applications that assist the identification of beneficial mutants in protein engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyue J. Yang
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
- Center
for Structural Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
- Vanderbilt
Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt
University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
- Data
Science Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Qianzhen Shao
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Yaoyukun Jiang
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Christopher Jurich
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
- Vanderbilt
Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt
University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Xinchun Ran
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Reecan J. Juarez
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
- Chemical
and Physical Biology Program, Vanderbilt
University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Bailu Yan
- Department
of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37205, United States
| | - Sebastian L. Stull
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Anvita Gollu
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Ning Ding
- Department
of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
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31
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Kim JY, Youn DH. Nanomaterials for Advanced Photocatalytic Plastic Conversion. Molecules 2023; 28:6502. [PMID: 37764278 PMCID: PMC10536819 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28186502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As the disposal of waste plastic emerges as a societal problem, photocatalytic waste plastic conversion is attracting significant attention. Ultimately, for a sustainable future, the development of an eco-friendly plastic conversion technology is essential for breaking away from the current plastic use environment. Compared to conventional methods, photocatalysis can be a more environmentally friendly option for waste plastic reprocessing because it uses sunlight as an energy source under ambient temperature and pressure. In addition to this, waste plastics can be upcycled (i.e., converted into useful chemicals or fuels) to enhance their original value via photocatalytic methods. Among various strategies for improving the efficiency of the photocatalytic method, nanomaterials have played a pivotal role in suppressing charge recombination. Hence, in recent years, attempts have been made to introduce nanomaterials/nanostructures into photocatalytic plastic conversion on the basis of advances in material-based studies using simple photocatalysts. In line with this trend, the present review examines the nanomaterials/nanostructures that have been recently developed for photocatalytic plastic conversion and discusses the direction of future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Young Kim
- Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Duck Hyun Youn
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Department of Integrative Engineering for Hydrogen Safety, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
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32
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Kell DB, Pretorius E. Are fibrinaloid microclots a cause of autoimmunity in Long Covid and other post-infection diseases? Biochem J 2023; 480:1217-1240. [PMID: 37584410 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20230241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
It is now well established that the blood-clotting protein fibrinogen can polymerise into an anomalous form of fibrin that is amyloid in character; the resultant clots and microclots entrap many other molecules, stain with fluorogenic amyloid stains, are rather resistant to fibrinolysis, can block up microcapillaries, are implicated in a variety of diseases including Long COVID, and have been referred to as fibrinaloids. A necessary corollary of this anomalous polymerisation is the generation of novel epitopes in proteins that would normally be seen as 'self', and otherwise immunologically silent. The precise conformation of the resulting fibrinaloid clots (that, as with prions and classical amyloid proteins, can adopt multiple, stable conformations) must depend on the existing small molecules and metal ions that the fibrinogen may (and is some cases is known to) have bound before polymerisation. Any such novel epitopes, however, are likely to lead to the generation of autoantibodies. A convergent phenomenology, including distinct conformations and seeding of the anomalous form for initiation and propagation, is emerging to link knowledge in prions, prionoids, amyloids and now fibrinaloids. We here summarise the evidence for the above reasoning, which has substantial implications for our understanding of the genesis of autoimmunity (and the possible prevention thereof) based on the primary process of fibrinaloid formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas B Kell
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, U.K
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 200, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1 Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa
| | - Etheresia Pretorius
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, U.K
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1 Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa
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He W, Gan Y, Qi X, Wang H, Song H, Su P, Song J, Yang Y. Enhancing Enzyme Activity Using Hydrophilic Hollow Layered Double Hydroxides as Encapsulation Carriers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023. [PMID: 37440477 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c05237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Enzyme immobilization enables the fabrication of flexible and powerful biocatalytic systems that can meet the needs of green and efficient development in various fields. However, restricted electron and mass transfer during enzymatic reactions and disruption of the enzyme structure during encapsulation limit the wide application of the immobilized enzyme systems. Herein, we report an encapsulation strategy based on hollow-shell-layered double hydroxides (LDHs; ZnCo-LDH) for green and nondestructive enzyme immobilization. Benefiting from the protective and enzyme-friendly microenvironment provided by the hydrophilic hollow structure of ZnCo-LDH, the encapsulated enzyme maintains a nearly natural enzyme biostructure and enhanced stability. Notably, mesoporous ZnCo-LDH with excellent electrical properties considerably facilitates electron and mass transport during enzymatic reactions, exhibiting 5.56 times the catalytic efficiency of free enzymes or traditional enzyme encapsulation systems. The current study broadens the family of encapsulated carriers and alleviates the trade-off between enzyme stability and catalytic activity in the encapsulated state, presenting a promising avenue for the industrial application of the enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting He
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmentally Harmful Chemical Analysis, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Yijia Gan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmentally Harmful Chemical Analysis, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Xingyi Qi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmentally Harmful Chemical Analysis, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Han Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmentally Harmful Chemical Analysis, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Hanyue Song
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmentally Harmful Chemical Analysis, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Ping Su
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmentally Harmful Chemical Analysis, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Jiayi Song
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmentally Harmful Chemical Analysis, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Yi Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmentally Harmful Chemical Analysis, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
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Wang T, Qu L, Luo D, Ji X, Ma Z, Wang Z, Dahlgren RA, Zhang M, Shang X. Microplastic pollution characteristics and its future perspectives in the Tibetan Plateau. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 457:131711. [PMID: 37257387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are an emerging and persistent pollutant due to their threat to global ecological systems and human health. Recent studies showed that microplastics have infiltrated the remote Third Pole - the Tibetan Plateau. Here, we summarize the current evidence for microplastic pollution in the different environments (rivers/lakes, sediment, soil, ice/snow and atmosphere) of the Tibetan Plateau. We assess the spatial distribution, source, fate, and potential ecological effects of microplastics in this broad plateau. The integrated results show that microplastics were pervasive in biotic and abiotic components of the Tibetan Plateau, even at the global highest-altitude, Mt. Everest. Although the concentration of microplastics in the Tibetan Plateau was far below that found in the densely populated lowlands, it showed a higher concentration than that in the ocean system. Tourist populations are identified as a substantial source of anthropogenic plastic input rather than local residents due to the rapid development of the tourism industry. In the sparsely inhabited remote area of the Tibetan Plateau, long-range atmospheric transport facilitates allochthonous microplastic diffusion. Robust solar radiation in the Tibetan Plateau might enhanced production of secondary microplastics by weathering (UV-photooxidation) of abandoned plastic waste. A rough estimation showed that the microplastic export flux from melting glaciers was higher than that measured in most of the world's largest rivers, which affects local and downstream areas. Since the Tibetan Plateau is vital for Asian water supply and numerous endangered wildlife, the potential human and ecological risk of microplastics to these fragile ecosystems needs to be fully evaluated within the context of climate-change impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Institute of Eco-Environmental Sciences, Wenzhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wenzhou 325006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liyin Qu
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Ecological Treatment Technology for Urban Water Pollution, Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab for Subtropical Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
| | - Dehua Luo
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xiaoliang Ji
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Zengling Ma
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Ecological Treatment Technology for Urban Water Pollution, Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab for Subtropical Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Zhonggen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Related Land Surface Processes, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Randy A Dahlgren
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Department of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Minghua Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China; Department of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Xu Shang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
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35
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Hoekstra M, Smith ML. Spectrophotometric-Based Assay to Quantify Relative Enzyme-Mediated Degradation of Commercially Available Bioplastics. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15112439. [PMID: 37299238 DOI: 10.3390/polym15112439] [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: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a spectrophotometric-based assay to identify enzymes that degrade commercially available bioplastics. Bioplastics comprise aliphatic polyesters with hydrolysis-susceptible ester bonds and are proposed as a replacement for petroleum-based plastics that accumulate in the environment. Unfortunately, many bioplastics can also persist in environments including seawater and waste centers. Our assay involves an overnight incubation of candidate enzyme(s) with plastic, followed by A610 spectrophotometry using 96-well plates to quantify both a reduction in residual plastic and the liberation of degradation by-products. We use the assay to show that Proteinase K and PLA depolymerase, two enzymes that were previously shown to degrade pure polylactic acid plastic, promote a 20-30% breakdown of commercial bioplastic during overnight incubation. We validate our assay and confirm the degradation potential of these enzymes with commercial bioplastic using established mass-loss and scanning electron microscopy methods. We show how the assay can be used to optimize parameters (temperature, co-factors, etc.) to enhance the enzyme-mediated degradation of bioplastics. The assay endpoint products can be coupled with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) or other analytical methods to infer the mode of enzymatic activity. Overall, the screening capacity of the spectrophotometric-based assay was demonstrated to be an accurate method to identify bioplastic-degrading enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Hoekstra
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Main Campus, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Main Campus, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Myron L Smith
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Main Campus, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Main Campus, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
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36
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Wang J, Waltmann C, Harms C, Hu S, Hegarty J, Shindel B, Wang Q, Dravid V, Shull KR, Torkelson JM, Olvera de la Cruz M. Tailoring Interactions of Random Copolymer Polyelectrolyte Complexes to Remove Nanoplastic Contaminants from Water. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:7514-7523. [PMID: 37196238 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c01028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
We investigate the usage of polyelectrolyte complex materials for water remediation purposes, specifically their ability to remove nanoplastics from water, on which there is currently little to no prior research. We demonstrate that oppositely charged random copolymers are effective at quantitatively removing nanoplastic contamination from aqueous solution. The mechanisms underlying this remediation ability are explored through computational simulations, with corroborating quartz crystal microbalance adsorption experiments. We find that hydrophobic nanostructures and interactions likely play an important role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Curt Waltmann
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Caroline Harms
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Sumeng Hu
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - John Hegarty
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Benjamin Shindel
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Qifeng Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Vinayak Dravid
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Kenneth R Shull
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - John M Torkelson
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Monica Olvera de la Cruz
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
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37
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Lu Q, Zhou Y, Sui Q, Zhou Y. Mechanism and characterization of microplastic aging process: A review. FRONTIERS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2023; 17:100. [PMID: 36935734 PMCID: PMC10010843 DOI: 10.1007/s11783-023-1700-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing production of petroleum-based plastics, the problem of environmental pollution caused by plastics has aroused widespread concern. Microplastics, which are formed by the fragmentation of macro plastics, are bio-accumulate easily due to their small size and slow degradation under natural conditions. The aging of plastics is an inevitable process for their degradation and enhancement of adsorption performance toward pollutants due to a series of changes in their physiochemical properties, which significantly increase the toxicity and harm of plastics. Therefore, studies should focus on the aging process of microplastics through reasonable characterization methods to promote the aging process and prevent white pollution. This review summarizes the latest progress in natural aging process and characterization methods to determine the natural aging mechanism of microplastics. In addition, recent advances in the artificial aging of microplastic pollutants are reviewed. The degradation status and by-products of biodegradable plastics in the natural environment and whether they can truly solve the plastic pollution problem have been discussed. Findings from the literature pointed out that the aging process of microplastics lacks professional and exclusive characterization methods, which include qualitative and quantitative analyses. To lessen the toxicity of microplastics in the environment, future research directions have been suggested based on existing problems in the current research. This review could provide a systematic reference for in-depth exploration of the aging mechanism and behavior of microplastics in natural and artificial systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinwei Lu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
| | - Yi Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
| | - Qian Sui
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
| | - Yanbo Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237 China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092 China
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38
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Xing R, Yuan C, Fan W, Ren X, Yan X. Biomolecular glass with amino acid and peptide nanoarchitectonics. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadd8105. [PMID: 36930715 PMCID: PMC10022897 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add8105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Glass is ubiquitous in life and widely used in various fields. However, there is an urgent need to develop biodegradable and biorecyclable glasses that have a minimal environmental footprint toward a sustainable society and a circular materials economy. Here, we report a family of eco-friendly glasses of biological origin fabricated using biologically derived amino acids or peptides through the classic heating-quenching procedure. Amino acids and peptides with chemical modification at their ends are found able to form a supercooled liquid before decomposition and eventually glass upon quenching. These developed glasses exhibit excellent glass-forming ability and optical characteristics and are amenable to three-dimensional-printed additive manufacturing and mold casting. Crucially, the glasses show biocompatibility, biodegradability, and biorecyclability beyond the currently used commercial glasses and plastic materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruirui Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chengqian Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Wei Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Xiaokang Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xuehai Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Center for Mesoscience, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
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39
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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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40
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Bher A, Cho Y, Auras R. Boosting Degradation of Biodegradable Polymers. Macromol Rapid Commun 2023; 44:e2200769. [PMID: 36648129 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202200769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradation of polymers in composting conditions is an alternative end-of-life (EoL) scenario for contaminated materials collected through the municipal solid waste management system, mainly when mechanical or chemical methods cannot be used to recycle them. Compostability certification requirements are time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, approaches to accelerate the biodegradation of these polymers in simulated composting conditions can facilitate and speed up the evaluation and selection of potential compostable polymer alternatives and inform faster methods to biodegrade these polymers in real composting. This review highlights recent trends, challenges, and future strategies to accelerate biodegradation by modifying the polymer properties/structure and the compost environment. Both abiotic and biotic methods show potential for accelerating the biodegradation of biodegradable polymers. Abiotic methods, such as the incorporation of additives, reduction of molecular weight, reduction of size and reactive blending, are potentially the most straightforward, providing a level of technology that allows for easy adoption and adaptability. Novel methods, including the concept of self-immolative and triggering the scission of polymer chains in specific conditions, are increasingly sought. In terms of biotic methods, dispersion/encapsulation of enzymes during the processing step, biostimulation of the environment, and bioaugmentation with specific microbial strains during the biodegradation process are promising to accelerate biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anibal Bher
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Yujung Cho
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Rafael Auras
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
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41
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Jin T, Coley CW, Alexander-Katz A. Adsorption of Biomimetic Amphiphilic Heteropolymers onto Graphene and Its Derivatives. Macromolecules 2023. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c02413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Jin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Connor W. Coley
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Alfredo Alexander-Katz
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
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42
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Jayapurna I, Ruan Z, Eres M, Jalagam P, Jenkins S, Xu T. Sequence Design of Random Heteropolymers as Protein Mimics. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:652-660. [PMID: 36638823 PMCID: PMC9930114 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Random heteropolymers (RHPs) have been computationally designed and experimentally shown to recapitulate protein-like phase behavior and function. However, unlike proteins, RHP sequences are only statistically defined and cannot be sequenced. Recent developments in reversible-deactivation radical polymerization allowed simulated polymer sequences based on the well-established Mayo-Lewis equation to more accurately reflect ground-truth sequences that are experimentally synthesized. This led to opportunities to perform bioinformatics-inspired analysis on simulated sequences to guide the design, synthesis, and interpretation of RHPs. We compared batches on the order of 10000 simulated RHP sequences that vary by synthetically controllable and measurable RHP characteristics such as chemical heterogeneity and average degree of polymerization. Our analysis spans across 3 levels: segments along a single chain, sequences within a batch, and batch-averaged statistics. We discuss simulator fidelity and highlight the importance of robust segment definition. Examples are presented that demonstrate the use of simulated sequence analysis for in-silico iterative design to mimic protein hydrophobic/hydrophilic segment distributions in RHPs and compare RHP and protein sequence segments to explain experimental results of RHPs that mimic protein function. To facilitate the community use of this workflow, the simulator and analysis modules have been made available through an open source toolkit, the RHPapp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Jayapurna
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Zhiyuan Ruan
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Marco Eres
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Prajna Jalagam
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Spencer Jenkins
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States.,Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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43
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Lan X, Li W, Ye C, Boetje L, Pelras T, Silvianti F, Chen Q, Pei Y, Loos K. Scalable and Degradable Dextrin-Based Elastomers for Wearable Touch Sensing. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:4398-4407. [PMID: 36514844 PMCID: PMC9880951 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c15634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Elastomer-based wearables can improve people's lives; however, frictional wear caused by manipulation may pose significant concerns regarding their durability and sustainability. To address the aforementioned issue, a new class of advanced scalable supersoft elastic transparent material (ASSETm) is reported, which offers a unique combination of scalability (20 g scale), stretchability (up to 235%), and enzymatic degradability (up to 65% in 30 days). The key feature of our design is to render native dextrin hydrophobic, which turns it into a macroinitiator for bulk ring-opening polymerization. Based on ASSETm, a self-powered touch sensor (ASSETm-TS) for touch sensing and non-contact approaching detection, possessing excellent electrical potential (up to 65 V) and rapid response time (60 ms), is fabricated. This work is a step toward developing sustainable soft electronic systems, and ASSETm's tunability enables further improvement of electrical outputs, enhancing human-interactive applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Lan
- Macromolecular
Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced
Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The
Netherlands
| | - Wenjian Li
- Advanced
Production Engineering, Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The Netherlands
| | - Chongnan Ye
- Macromolecular
Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced
Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The
Netherlands
| | - Laura Boetje
- Macromolecular
Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced
Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The
Netherlands
| | - Théophile Pelras
- Macromolecular
Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced
Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The
Netherlands
| | - Fitrilia Silvianti
- Macromolecular
Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced
Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The
Netherlands
| | - Qi Chen
- Macromolecular
Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced
Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The
Netherlands
| | - Yutao Pei
- Advanced
Production Engineering, Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The Netherlands
| | - Katja Loos
- Macromolecular
Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials, Zernike Institute for Advanced
Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen9747AG, The
Netherlands
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44
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Jiang Y, Ran X, Yang ZJ. Data-driven enzyme engineering to identify function-enhancing enzymes. Protein Eng Des Sel 2023; 36:gzac009. [PMID: 36214500 PMCID: PMC10365845 DOI: 10.1093/protein/gzac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying function-enhancing enzyme variants is a 'holy grail' challenge in protein science because it will allow researchers to expand the biocatalytic toolbox for late-stage functionalization of drug-like molecules, environmental degradation of plastics and other pollutants, and medical treatment of food allergies. Data-driven strategies, including statistical modeling, machine learning, and deep learning, have largely advanced the understanding of the sequence-structure-function relationships for enzymes. They have also enhanced the capability of predicting and designing new enzymes and enzyme variants for catalyzing the transformation of new-to-nature reactions. Here, we reviewed the recent progresses of data-driven models that were applied in identifying efficiency-enhancing mutants for catalytic reactions. We also discussed existing challenges and obstacles faced by the community. Although the review is by no means comprehensive, we hope that the discussion can inform the readers about the state-of-the-art in data-driven enzyme engineering, inspiring more joint experimental-computational efforts to develop and apply data-driven modeling to innovate biocatalysts for synthetic and pharmaceutical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyukun Jiang
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Xinchun Ran
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Zhongyue J Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
- Center for Structural Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
- Data Science Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
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45
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Li F, Li Y, Novoselov KS, Liang F, Meng J, Ho SH, Zhao T, Zhou H, Ahmad A, Zhu Y, Hu L, Ji D, Jia L, Liu R, Ramakrishna S, Zhang X. Bioresource Upgrade for Sustainable Energy, Environment, and Biomedicine. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2023; 15:35. [PMID: 36629933 PMCID: PMC9833044 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-022-00993-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
We conceptualize bioresource upgrade for sustainable energy, environment, and biomedicine with a focus on circular economy, sustainability, and carbon neutrality using high availability and low utilization biomass (HALUB). We acme energy-efficient technologies for sustainable energy and material recovery and applications. The technologies of thermochemical conversion (TC), biochemical conversion (BC), electrochemical conversion (EC), and photochemical conversion (PTC) are summarized for HALUB. Microalgal biomass could contribute to a biofuel HHV of 35.72 MJ Kg-1 and total benefit of 749 $/ton biomass via TC. Specific surface area of biochar reached 3000 m2 g-1 via pyrolytic carbonization of waste bean dregs. Lignocellulosic biomass can be effectively converted into bio-stimulants and biofertilizers via BC with a high conversion efficiency of more than 90%. Besides, lignocellulosic biomass can contribute to a current density of 672 mA m-2 via EC. Bioresource can be 100% selectively synthesized via electrocatalysis through EC and PTC. Machine learning, techno-economic analysis, and life cycle analysis are essential to various upgrading approaches of HALUB. Sustainable biomaterials, sustainable living materials and technologies for biomedical and multifunctional applications like nano-catalysis, microfluidic and micro/nanomotors beyond are also highlighted. New techniques and systems for the complete conversion and utilization of HALUB for new energy and materials are further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanghua Li
- Center for Nanofibers and Nanotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119260, Singapore
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiwei Li
- School of Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - K S Novoselov
- Centre for Advanced 2D Materials, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117546, Singapore
- School of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Feng Liang
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Jiashen Meng
- School of Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Shih-Hsin Ho
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Zhou
- Department of Energy and Power Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, People's Republic of China
| | - Awais Ahmad
- Departamento de Quimica Organica, Universidad de Cordoba, Edificio Marie Curie (C-3), Ctra Nnal IV-A, Km 396, 14014, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Yinlong Zhu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Liangxing Hu
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Dongxiao Ji
- Center for Nanofibers and Nanotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119260, Singapore
| | - Litao Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, People's Republic of China
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Center for Nanofibers and Nanotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119260, Singapore
| | - Xingcai Zhang
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA.
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46
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Zheng K, Wu Y, Hu Z, Wang S, Jiao X, Zhu J, Sun Y, Xie Y. Progress and perspective for conversion of plastic wastes into valuable chemicals. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:8-29. [PMID: 36468343 DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00688j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Today, discarded plastics in nature have caused serious "white pollution", however these plastic wastes contain abundant carbon resources that could serve as the feedstock to produce commodities. Because of this, it is requisite to convert these plastic wastes into valuable chemicals. Herein, the state-of-the-art techniques for plastic conversion are divided into two categories, those performed under violent conditions and mild conditions, in which the conversion mechanisms are discussed. The strategies under violent conditions are closer to practical application thanks to their excellent conversion efficiencies, while the strategies under mild conditions are more environmentally friendly, showing enormous development potential in the future. We summarize in detail the pyrolysis, hydropyrolysis, solvolysis and microwave-initiated catalysis for bond cleavage in plastic wastes at temperatures ranging from 448 to 973 K. Also, we overview the photocatalysis, electrocatalysis and biocatalysis for bond cleavage in plastic wastes at near and even normal temperature and pressure. Finally, we present some suggestions and outlooks concerning the improvement of current techniques and in-depth mechanisms of investigation for conversion of plastics into valuable chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zheng
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, P. R. China.
| | - Yang Wu
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, P. R. China.
| | - Zexun Hu
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, P. R. China.
| | - Shumin Wang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, P. R. China.
| | - Xingchen Jiao
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, P. R. China. .,Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Juncheng Zhu
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, P. R. China.
| | - Yongfu Sun
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, P. R. China.
| | - Yi Xie
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, P. R. China.
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47
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Zeng J, Tang Y, Yang J, Yang Y, Li G, Wang X, Feng J, Chen K, Li H, Ouyang P. Inert enzyme nanoaggregates for simultaneous biodecarboxylation and CO2 conversion. Sep Purif Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.122447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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48
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Li M, Hou Z, Meng R, Hao S, Wang B. Unraveling the potential human health risks from used disposable face mask-derived micro/nanoplastics during the COVID-19 pandemic scenario: A critical review. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 170:107644. [PMID: 36413926 PMCID: PMC9671534 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107644] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
With the global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), disposable face masks (DFMs) have caused negative environmental impacts. DFMs will release microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) during environmental degradation. However, few studies reveal the release process of MPs/NPs from masks in the natural environment. This review presents the current knowledge on the abiotic and biotic degradation of DFMs. Though MPs and NPs have raised serious concerns about their potentially detrimental effects on human health, little attention was paid to their impacts on human health from DFM-derived MPs and NPs. The potential toxicity of mask-derived MPs/NPs, such as gastrointestinal toxicity, pneumotoxicity, neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, reproductive and transgenerational toxicity, and the underlying mechanism will be discussed in the present study. MPs/NPs serve as carriers of toxic chemicals and pathogens, leading to their bioaccumulation and adverse effects of biomagnification by food chains. Given human experiments are facing ethical issues and animal studies cannot completely reveal human characteristics, advanced human organoids will provide promising models for MP/NP risk assessment. Moreover, in-depth investigations are required to identify the release of MPs/NPs from discarded face masks and characterize their transportation through the food chains. More importantly, innovative approaches and eco-friendly strategies are urgently demanded to reduce DFM-derived MP/NP pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China; Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Zongkun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Run Meng
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Shilei Hao
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.
| | - Bochu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.
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49
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Ji J, Zhao T, Li F. Remediation technology towards zero plastic pollution: Recent advance and perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 313:120166. [PMID: 36116565 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The rapid growth of plastic wastes exceeds efforts to eliminate plastic pollution owing to the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 and then aggravates inherent environmental threats to the ecosystem. The paper provided a short introduction relating to the hazards of plastic wastes on environment and a detailed statement about plastic toxicity on human. The article stated on plastic how to enter the body and cause harm for us step by step. Given the toxicity and harm of plastic wastes on human, the degradation of plastic wastes via the physical, chemical and biotic methodologies is looked back. The advanced physical techniques are introduced briefly at firstly. Additionally, evaluate on chemical method for plastic decomposition and review on biotic degradation of plastic. The reactive oxygen species and the enzymes play a crucial role in chemical and biotic degradation processes, respectively. The reactive oxygen species are derived from the activated state of oxides, and the enzymes that aid the microorganism to ingest plastic through its metabolic mechanism are secreted by the microorganism. Subsequently, the potential possibility of upcycling plastic is analyzed from two aspects of the technology and application. The innovative technology utilizes sunlight as driver-power of plastic upcycling. And the carbon capture, utilization and sequestration and the growth substrate provided the novel guided directions for plastic recycle. Lastly, the three suggestions on plastic waste management are expected to establish an economy and efficient plastic sorting system, and two engineering solutions on plastic recycle are to make a contribution for sustainable upcycling of plastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghao Ji
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Tong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Fanghua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China.
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50
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Xu C, Battig A, Schartel B, Siegel R, Senker J, von der Forst I, Unverzagt C, Agarwal S, Möglich A, Greiner A. Investigation of the Thermal Stability of Proteinase K for the Melt Processing of Poly(l-lactide). Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:4841-4850. [PMID: 36327974 PMCID: PMC9667878 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The enzymatic degradation of aliphatic polyesters offers unique opportunities for various use cases in materials science. Although evidently desirable, the implementation of enzymes in technical applications of polyesters is generally challenging due to the thermal lability of enzymes. To prospectively overcome this intrinsic limitation, we here explored the thermal stability of proteinase K at conditions applicable for polymer melt processing, given that this hydrolytic enzyme is well established for its ability to degrade poly(l-lactide) (PLLA). Using assorted spectroscopic methods and enzymatic assays, we investigated the effects of high temperatures on the structure and specific activity of proteinase K. Whereas in solution, irreversible unfolding occurred at temperatures above 75-80 °C, in the dry, bulk state, proteinase K withstood prolonged incubation at elevated temperatures. Unexpectedly little activity loss occurred during incubation at up to 130 °C, and intermediate levels of catalytic activity were preserved at up to 150 °C. The resistance of bulk proteinase K to thermal treatment was slightly enhanced by absorption into polyacrylamide (PAM) particles. Under these conditions, after 5 min at a temperature of 200 °C, which is required for the melt processing of PLLA, proteinase K was not completely denatured but retained around 2% enzymatic activity. Our findings reveal that the thermal processing of proteinase K in the dry state is principally feasible, but equally, they also identify needs and prospects for improvement. The experimental pipeline we establish for proteinase K analysis stands to benefit efforts directed to this end. More broadly, our work sheds light on enzymatically degradable polymers and the thermal processing of enzymes, which are of increasing economical and societal relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengzhang Xu
- Macromolecular
Chemistry and Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Alexander Battig
- Bundesanstalt
für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM), Unter den Eichen 87, Berlin 12205, Germany
| | - Bernhard Schartel
- Bundesanstalt
für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM), Unter den Eichen 87, Berlin 12205, Germany
| | - Renée Siegel
- Inorganic
Chemistry III and Northern Bavarian NMR Centre (NBNC), University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Jürgen Senker
- Inorganic
Chemistry III and Northern Bavarian NMR Centre (NBNC), University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Inge von der Forst
- Bioorganic
Chemistry, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth 95447, Germany
| | - Carlo Unverzagt
- Bioorganic
Chemistry, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth 95447, Germany
| | - Seema Agarwal
- Macromolecular
Chemistry and Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
| | - Andreas Möglich
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth 95447, Germany
| | - Andreas Greiner
- Macromolecular
Chemistry and Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
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