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González-Márquez A, Andrade-Alvarado AD, González-Mota R, Sánchez C. Enhanced degradation of phototreated recycled and unused low-density polyethylene films by Pleurotus ostreatus. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:309. [PMID: 39179751 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-04116-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene, one of the most used petroleum-derived polymers, causes serious environmental pollution. The ability of Pleurotus ostreatus to degrade UV-treated and untreated recycled and unused (new) low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films was studied. We determined the fungal biomass production, enzyme production, and enzyme yield. Changes in the chemical structure and surface morphology of the LDPE after fungal growth were analyzed using FTIR spectroscopy and SEM. Functional group indices and contact angles were also evaluated. In general, the highest Lac (6013 U/L), LiP (2432 U/L), MnP (995 U/L) and UP (6671 U/L) activities were observed in irradiated recycled LDPE (IrRPE). The contact angle of all samples was negatively correlated with fermentation time; the smaller the contact angle, the longer the fermentation time, indicating effective biodegradation. The IrRPE samples exhibited the smallest contact angle (49°) at 4 weeks, and the samples were fragmented (into two pieces) at 5 weeks. This fungus could degrade unused (new) LDPE significantly within 6 weeks. The biodegradation of LDPE proceeded faster in recycled than in unused samples, which can be enhanced by exposing LDPE to UV radiation. Enzymatic production during fungal growth suggest that LDPE degradation is initiated by laccase (Lac) followed by lignin peroxidase (LiP), whereas manganese peroxidase (MnP) and unspecific peroxygenase (UP) are involved in the final degradation process. This is the first experimental study on the fungal growth and its main enzymes involved in LDPE biodegradation. This fungus has great promise as a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly organism capable of degrading LDPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel González-Márquez
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Research Centre for Biological Sciences, Autonomous University of Tlaxcala, Ixtacuixtla, Tlaxcala, 90120, Mexico
| | | | - Rosario González-Mota
- Laboratory of Optoelectronics, Technological Institute of Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes, 20256, Mexico
| | - Carmen Sánchez
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Research Centre for Biological Sciences, Autonomous University of Tlaxcala, Ixtacuixtla, Tlaxcala, 90120, Mexico.
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2
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Safdar A, Ismail F, Safdar M, Imran M. Eco-friendly approaches for mitigating plastic pollution: advancements and implications for a greener future. Biodegradation 2024; 35:493-518. [PMID: 38310578 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-023-10062-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a global problem since the extensive use of plastic in industries such as packaging, electronics, manufacturing and construction, healthcare, transportation, and others. This has resulted in an environmental burden that is continually growing, which has inspired many scientists as well as environmentalists to come up with creative solutions to deal with this problem. Numerous studies have been reviewed to determine practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly solutions to regulate plastic waste by leveraging microbes' innate abilities to naturally decompose polymers. Enzymatic breakdown of plastics has been proposed to serve this goal since the discovery of enzymes from microbial sources that truly interact with plastic in its naturalistic environment and because it is a much faster and more effective method than others. The scope of diverse microbes and associated enzymes in polymer breakdown is highlighted in the current review. The use of co-cultures or microbial consortium-based techniques for the improved breakdown of plastic products and the generation of high-value end products that may be utilized as prototypes of bioenergy sources is highlighted. The review also offers a thorough overview of the developments in the microbiological and enzymatic biological degradation of plastics, as well as several elements that impact this process for the survival of our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Safdar
- Department of Biochemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Fatima Ismail
- Department of Biochemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan.
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan.
| | - Maryem Safdar
- University College of Conventional Medicine, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Institute of Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 5180600, Guangdong Province, China.
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Thakur M, Yadav V, Kumar Y, Pramanik A, Dubey KK. How to deal with xenobiotic compounds through environment friendly approach? Crit Rev Biotechnol 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38710611 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2024.2336527] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Every year, a huge amount of lethal compounds, such as synthetic dyes, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, hydrocarbons, etc. are mass produced worldwide, which negatively affect soil, air, and water quality. At present, pesticides are used very frequently to meet the requirements of modernized agriculture. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) estimates that food production will increase by 80% by 2050 to keep up with the growing population, consequently pesticides will continue to play a role in agriculture. However, improper handling of these highly persistent chemicals leads to pollution of the environment and accumulation in food chain. These effects necessitate the development of technologies to eliminate or degrade these pollutants. Degradation of these compounds by physical and chemical processes is expensive and usually results in secondary compounds with higher toxicity. The biological strategies proposed for the degradation of these compounds are both cost-effective and eco-friendly. Microbes play an imperative role in the degradation of xenobiotic compounds that have toxic effects on the environment. This review on the fate of xenobiotic compounds in the environment presents cutting-edge insights and novel contributions in different fields. Microbial community dynamics in water bodies, genetic modification for enhanced pesticide degradation and the use of fungi for pharmaceutical removal, white-rot fungi's versatile ligninolytic enzymes and biodegradation potential are highlighted. Here we emphasize the factors influencing bioremediation, such as microbial interactions and carbon catabolism repression, along with a nuanced view of challenges and limitations. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on the bioremediation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mony Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, India
| | - Vinod Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, India
| | - Yatin Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, India
| | - Avijit Pramanik
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, India
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Sathiyabama M, Boomija RV, Sathiyamoorthy T, Mathivanan N, Balaji R. Mycodegradation of low-density polyethylene by Cladosporium sphaerospermum, isolated from platisphere. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8351. [PMID: 38594512 PMCID: PMC11004025 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59032-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic accumulation is a severe threat to the environment due to its resistivity to thermal, mechanical and biological processes. In recent years, microbial degradation of plastic waste disposal is of interest because of its eco-friendly nature. In this study, a total of 33 fungi were isolated from the plastisphere and out of which 28 fungal species showed halo zone of clearance in agarized LDPE media. The fungus showing highest zone of clearance was further used to evaluate its degradation potential. Based on morphological and molecular technique, the fungus was identified as Cladosporium sphaerospermum. The biodegradation of LDPE by C. sphaerospermum was evaluated by various methods. The exposure of LDPE with C. sphaerospermum resulted in weight loss (15.23%) in seven days, higher reduction rate (0.0224/day) and lower half-life (30.93 days). FTIR analysis showed changes in functional group and increased carbonyl index in LDPE treated with C. sphaerospermum. SEMimages evidenced the formation of pits, surface aberrations and grooves on the LDPE film treated with the fungus whereas the untreated control LDPE film showed no change. AFM analysis confirmed the surface changes and roughness in fungus treated LDPE film. This might be due to the extracellular lignolytic enzymes secreted by C. sphaerospermum grown on LDPE. The degradation of polyethylene by Short chain alkanes such as dodecane, hexasiloxane and silane were identified in the extract of fungus incubated with LDPE film through GC-MS analysis which might be due to the degradation of LDPE film by C. sphaerospermum. This was the first report on the LDPE degradation by C. sphaerospermum in very short duration which enables green scavenging of plastic wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sathiyabama
- Department of Botany, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620 024, India.
| | - R V Boomija
- Department of Botany, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620 024, India
| | - T Sathiyamoorthy
- CAS in Botany, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600025, India
| | - N Mathivanan
- CAS in Botany, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600025, India
| | - R Balaji
- CAS in Botany, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600025, India
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Bhatia SK, Kumar G, Yang YH. Understanding microplastic pollution: Tracing the footprints and eco-friendly solutions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169926. [PMID: 38199349 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution has emerged as a critical environmental issue with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human health. These are plastic particles measuring <5 mm and are categorized as primary and secondary based on their origin. Primary MPs are used in various products like cosmetics, scrubs, body wash, and toothpaste, while secondary MPs are generated through the degradation of plastic products. These have been detected in seas, rivers, snow, indoor air, and seafood, posing potential risks to human health through the food chain. Detecting and quantifying MPs are essential to understand their distribution and abundance in the environment. Various microscopic (fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy) and spectroscopy techniques (FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) have been reported to analyse MPs. Despite the challenges in scalable removal methods, biological systems have emerged as promising options for eco-friendly MPs remediation. Algae, bacteria, and fungi have shown the potential to adsorb and degrade MPs in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) offering hope for mitigating this global crisis. This review examines the sources, impacts, detection, and biological removal of MPs, highlighting future directions in this crucial field of environmental conservation. By fostering global collaboration and innovative research a path towards a cleaner and healthier planet for future generations can be promised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashi Kant Bhatia
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Applications, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Institute of Chemistry, Bioscience and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Stavanger, Box 8600 Forus, 4036 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Yung-Hun Yang
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; Institute for Ubiquitous Information Technology and Applications, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
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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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Burelo M, Hernández-Varela JD, Medina DI, Treviño-Quintanilla CD. Recent developments in bio-based polyethylene: Degradation studies, waste management and recycling. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21374. [PMID: 37885729 PMCID: PMC10598529 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, the tendency to replace conventional fossil-based plastics is increasing considerably; there is a growing trend towards alternatives that involve the development of plastic materials derived from renewable sources, which are compostable and biodegradable. Indeed, only 1.5 % of whole plastic production is part of the small bioplastics market, even when these materials with a partial or full composition from biomass are rapidly expanding. A very interesting field of investigation is currently being developed in which the disposal and processing of the final products are evaluated in terms of reducing environmental harm. This review presents a compilation of polyethylene (PE) types, their uses, and current problems in the waste management of PE and recycling. Particularly, this review is based on the capabilities to synthesize bio-based PE from natural and renewable sources as a replacement for the raw material derived from petroleum. In addition to recent studies in degradation on different types of PE with weight loss ranges from 1 to 47 %, the techniques used and the main changes observed after degradation. Finally, perspectives are presented in the manuscript about renewable and non-renewable polymers, depending on the non-degradable, biodegradable, and compostable behavior, including composting recent studies in PE. In addition, it contributes to the 3R approaches to responsible waste management of PE and advancement towards an environmentally friendly PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Burelo
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey, 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Josué David Hernández-Varela
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey, 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Dora I. Medina
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey, 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Cecilia D. Treviño-Quintanilla
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey, 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
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Wędrychowicz M, Kurowiak J, Skrzekut T, Noga P. Recycling of Electrical Cables-Current Challenges and Future Prospects. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:6632. [PMID: 37895613 PMCID: PMC10608251 DOI: 10.3390/ma16206632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Civilization and technical progress are not possible without energy. Dynamic economic growth translates into a systematic increase in demand for electricity. Ensuring the continuity and reliability of electricity supplies is one of the most important aspects of energy security in highly developed countries. Growing energy consumption results not only in the need to build new power plants but also in the need to expand and increase transmission capacity. Therefore, large quantities of electric cables are produced all over the world, and after some time, they largely become waste. Recycling of electric cables focuses on the recovery of metals, mainly copper and aluminum, while polymer insulation is often considered waste and ends up in landfills. Currently, more and more stringent regulations are being introduced, mainly environmental ones, which require maximizing the reduction in waste. This article provides a literature review on cable recycling, presenting the advantages and disadvantages of various recycling methods, including mechanical and material recycling. It has been found that currently, there are very large possibilities for recycling cables, and intensive scientific work is being carried out on their development, which is consistent with global climate policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Wędrychowicz
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Materials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Zielona Gora, Prof. Z. Szafrana 4 Street, 65-516 Zielona Gora, Poland;
| | - Jagoda Kurowiak
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Materials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Zielona Gora, Prof. Z. Szafrana 4 Street, 65-516 Zielona Gora, Poland;
| | - Tomasz Skrzekut
- Faculty of Non-Ferrous Metals, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (T.S.); (P.N.)
| | - Piotr Noga
- Faculty of Non-Ferrous Metals, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (T.S.); (P.N.)
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Vaksmaa A, Polerecky L, Dombrowski N, Kienhuis MVM, Posthuma I, Gerritse J, Boekhout T, Niemann H. Polyethylene degradation and assimilation by the marine yeast Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. ISME COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:68. [PMID: 37423910 PMCID: PMC10330194 DOI: 10.1038/s43705-023-00267-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Ocean plastic pollution is a severe environmental problem but most of the plastic that has been released to the ocean since the 1950s is unaccounted for. Although fungal degradation of marine plastics has been suggested as a potential sink mechanism, unambiguous proof of plastic degradation by marine fungi, or other microbes, is scarce. Here we applied stable isotope tracing assays with 13C-labeled polyethylene to measure biodegradation rates and to trace the incorporation of plastic-derived carbon into individual cells of the yeast Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, which we isolated from the marine environment. 13C accumulation in the CO2 pool during 5-day incubation experiments with R. mucilaginosa and UV-irradiated 13C-labeled polyethylene as a sole energy and carbon source translated to degradation rates of 3.8% yr-1 of the initially added substrate. Furthermore, nanoSIMS measurements revealed substantial incorporation of polyethylene-derived carbon into fungal biomass. Our results demonstrate the potential of R. mucilaginosa to mineralize and assimilate carbon from plastics and suggest that fungal plastic degradation may be an important sink for polyethylene litter in the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Vaksmaa
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Texel, The Netherlands.
| | - Lubos Polerecky
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nina Dombrowski
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Texel, The Netherlands
| | - Michiel V M Kienhuis
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ilsa Posthuma
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Texel, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Gerritse
- Deltares, Unit Subsurface and Groundwater Systems, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Teun Boekhout
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Helge Niemann
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Texel, The Netherlands
- Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Gollan M, Black G, Munoz-Munoz J. A computational approach to optimising laccase-mediated polyethylene oxidation through carbohydrate-binding module fusion. BMC Biotechnol 2023; 23:18. [PMID: 37415113 PMCID: PMC10324223 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-023-00787-5] [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: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a major global concern to the health and wellbeing of all terrestrial and marine life. However, no sustainable method for waste management is currently viable. This study addresses the optimisation of microbial enzymatic polyethylene oxidation through rational engineering of laccases with carbohydrate-binding module (CBM) domains. An explorative bioinformatic approach was taken for high-throughput screening of candidate laccases and CBM domains, representing an exemplar workflow for future engineering research. Molecular docking simulated polyethylene binding whilst a deep-learning algorithm predicted catalytic activity. Protein properties were examined to interpret the mechanisms behind laccase-polyethylene binding. The incorporation of flexible GGGGS(x3) hinges were found to improve putative polyethylene binding of laccases. Whilst CBM1 family domains were predicted to bind polyethylene, they were suggested to detriment laccase-polyethylene associations. In contrast, CBM2 domains reported improved polyethylene binding and may thus optimise laccase oxidation. Interactions between CBM domains, linkers, and polyethylene hydrocarbons were heavily reliant on hydrophobicity. Preliminary polyethylene oxidation is considered a necessity for consequent microbial uptake and assimilation. However, slow oxidation and depolymerisation rates inhibit the large-scale industrial implementation of bioremediation within waste management systems. The optimised polyethylene oxidation of CBM2-engineered laccases represents a significant advancement towards a sustainable method of complete plastic breakdown. Results of this study offer a rapid, accessible workflow for further research into exoenzyme optimisation whilst elucidating mechanisms behind the laccase-polyethylene interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Gollan
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, Tyne and Wear, England, United Kingdom.
| | - Gary Black
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, Tyne and Wear, England, United Kingdom
| | - Jose Munoz-Munoz
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, Tyne and Wear, England, United Kingdom
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Gong Z, Jin L, Yu X, Wang B, Hu S, Ruan H, Sung YJ, Lee HG, Jin F. Biodegradation of Low Density Polyethylene by the Fungus Cladosporium sp. Recovered from a Landfill Site. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:605. [PMID: 37367541 DOI: 10.3390/jof9060605] [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: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Low density polyethylene (LDPE) has been widely used commercially for decades; however, as a non-degradable material, its continuous accumulation has contributed to serious environmental issues. A fungal strain, Cladosporium sp. CPEF-6 exhibiting a significant growth advantage on MSM-LDPE (minimal salt medium), was isolated and selected for biodegradation analysis. LDPE biodegradation was analyzed by weight loss percent, change in pH during fungal growth, environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Inoculation with the strain Cladosporium sp. CPEF-6 resulted in a 0.30 ± 0.06% decrease in the weight of untreated LDPE (U-LDPE). After heat treatment (T-LDPE), the weight loss of LDPE increased significantly and reached 0.43 ± 0.01% after 30 days of culture. The pH of the medium was measured during LDPE degradation to assess the environmental changes caused by enzymes and organic acids secreted by the fungus. The fungal degradation of LDPE sheets was characterized by ESEM analysis of topographical alterations, such as cracks, pits, voids, and roughness. FTIR analysis of U-LDPE and T-LDPE revealed the appearance of novel functional groups associated with hydrocarbon biodegradation as well as changes in the polymer carbon chain, confirming the depolymerization of LDPE. This is the first report demonstrating the capacity of Cladosporium sp. to degrade LDPE, with the expectation that this finding can be used to ameliorate the negative impact of plastics on the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Gong
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Long Jin
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Xingye Yu
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Baoteng Wang
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Shuang Hu
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Honghua Ruan
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Yun-Ju Sung
- Technology Transfer Centre, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Gwan Lee
- Cell Factory Research Centre, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Fengjie Jin
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China
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Elsamahy T, Sun J, Elsilk SE, Ali SS. Biodegradation of low-density polyethylene plastic waste by a constructed tri-culture yeast consortium from wood-feeding termite: Degradation mechanism and pathway. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 448:130944. [PMID: 36860037 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) is one of the most common synthetic polymers, and PE waste pollution has been an environmental and health concern for decades. Biodegradation is the most eco-friendly and effective approach for plastic waste management. Recently, an emphasis has been placed on novel symbiotic yeasts isolated from termite guts as promising microbiomes for multiple biotechnological applications. This study might be the first to explore the potential of a constructed tri-culture yeast consortium, designated as DYC, isolated from termites for the degradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The yeast consortium DYC stands for the molecularly identified species Sterigmatomyces halophilus, Meyerozyma guilliermondii, and Meyerozyma caribbica. The LDPE-DYC consortium showed a high growth rate on UV-sterilized LDPE as a sole carbon source, resulting in a reduction in tensile strength (TS) of 63.4% and a net LDPE mass reduction of 33.2% compared to the individual yeasts. All yeasts, individually and in consortium, showed a high production rate for LDPE-degrading enzymes. The hypothetical LDPE biodegradation pathway that was proposed revealed the formation of several metabolites, including alkanes, aldehydes, ethanol, and fatty acids. This study emphasizes a novel concept for using LDPE-degrading yeasts from wood-feeding termites for plastic waste biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamer Elsamahy
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Jianzhong Sun
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Sobhy E Elsilk
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Sameh S Ali
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt.
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Khan D, Ali SA. On the Novel Process of Pristine Microplastic Bio-fragmentation by Zebrafish (Danio rerio). ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2023; 84:299-306. [PMID: 36929014 PMCID: PMC10019436 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-023-00987-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are highly persistent particles that deliberately contaminate our ecosystem. These small-sized particles can pass through filtering systems into the water bodies, affecting various forms of aquatic and terrestrial life. However, little is known about their fragmentation process within the organism's body. In previous studies, commercially available microplastics were used that are rarely found in the environment naturally, hence they cannot mimic the effects on our surroundings. Therefore, using the zebrafish, Danio rerio we have evaluated the process of bio-fragmentation of ingested pristine polyethene microplastics which are widely used in our daily life. We have also examined their faecal pellets through Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Our results show that zebrafish can potentially bio-fragment the pristine microplastic particles into nano-plastic within a short period of 24 h. Additionally, zebrafish cannot recognize the pristine microplastic particles and can ingest them as food. No mortality occurred during the experiment. Thus, we have identified a natural pathway of microplastic bio-fragmentation, introducing an emerging role of zebrafish in biogeochemical cycling and the fate of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darakhshan Khan
- Postgraduate Department of Biotechnology, Saifia College of Science, Bhopal, 462001, India
| | - Sharique A Ali
- Postgraduate Department of Biotechnology, Saifia College of Science, Bhopal, 462001, India.
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Mendoza-Burguete Y, de la Luz Pérez-Rea M, Ledesma-García J, Campos-Guillén J, Ramos-López MA, Guzmán C, Rodríguez-Morales JA. Global Situation of Bioremediation of Leachate-Contaminated Soils by Treatment with Microorganisms: A Systematic Review. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11040857. [PMID: 37110280 PMCID: PMC10145224 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11040857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review presents the current state of research in the last five years on contaminants in soils, especially in leachates from solid waste landfills, with emphasis on biological remediation. In this work, the pollutants that can be treated by microorganisms and the results obtained worldwide were studied. All the data obtained were compiled, integrated, and analyzed by soil type, pollutant type, bacterial type, and the countries where these studies were carried out. This review provides reliable data on the contamination of soils worldwide, especially soils contaminated by leachate from municipal landfills. The extent of contamination, treatment objectives, site characteristics, cost, type of microorganisms to be used, and time must be considered when selecting a viable remediation strategy. The results of this study can help develop innovative and applicable methods for evaluating the overall contamination of soil with different contaminants and soil types. These findings can help develop innovative, applicable, and economically feasible methods for the sustainable management of contaminated soils, whether from landfill leachate or other soil types, to reduce or eliminate risk to the environment and human health, and to achieve greater greenery and functionality on the planet.
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Zhang C, Mu Y, Li T, Jin FJ, Jin CZ, Oh HM, Lee HG, Jin L. Assembly strategies for polyethylene-degrading microbial consortia based on the combination of omics tools and the "Plastisphere". Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1181967. [PMID: 37138608 PMCID: PMC10150012 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1181967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous microorganisms and other invertebrates that are able to degrade polyethylene (PE) have been reported. However, studies on PE biodegradation are still limited due to its extreme stability and the lack of explicit insights into the mechanisms and efficient enzymes involved in its metabolism by microorganisms. In this review, current studies of PE biodegradation, including the fundamental stages, important microorganisms and enzymes, and functional microbial consortia, were examined. Considering the bottlenecks in the construction of PE-degrading consortia, a combination of top-down and bottom-up approaches is proposed to identify the mechanisms and metabolites of PE degradation, related enzymes, and efficient synthetic microbial consortia. In addition, the exploration of the plastisphere based on omics tools is proposed as a future principal research direction for the construction of synthetic microbial consortia for PE degradation. Combining chemical and biological upcycling processes for PE waste could be widely applied in various fields to promote a sustainable environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengxiao Zhang
- College of Biology and the Environment, Co-Innovation Centre for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yulin Mu
- College of Biology and the Environment, Co-Innovation Centre for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Taihua Li
- College of Biology and the Environment, Co-Innovation Centre for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng-Jie Jin
- College of Biology and the Environment, Co-Innovation Centre for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun-Zhi Jin
- Cell Factory Research Centre, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Mock Oh
- Cell Factory Research Centre, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Gwan Lee
- Cell Factory Research Centre, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Hyung-Gwan Lee,
| | - Long Jin
- College of Biology and the Environment, Co-Innovation Centre for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Long Jin,
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Plastic-inhabiting fungi in marine environments and PCL degradation activity. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2022; 115:1379-1392. [PMID: 36239838 PMCID: PMC9675664 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-022-01782-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Plastic waste has a negative impact on marine ecosystems and the quantity of this source of anthropogenic pollution continues to increase. Several studies have investigated plastic biodegradation using various microorganisms. In this study, we isolated fungi from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste on Korean seacoasts and evaluated their ability to degrade plastic by comparing the diameters of the clear zones they formed on polycaprolactone (PCL) agar. We isolated 262 strains from 47 plastic waste sources and identified 108 fungal species via molecular methods. The PCL agar assay revealed that 87 species presented with varying degrees of PCL degradation capacity. Among them, certain fungal species were strong PCL degraders. The present study demonstrated the possibility that some fungi inhabiting plastic could potentially degrade it in the marine environment. We believe that the discoveries made herein lay theoretical and practical foundations for the development of novel bioremediation systems for marine plastispheres and help mitigate the environmental pollution issues related to plastic wastes.
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Chen Z, Liu X, Wei W, Chen H, Ni BJ. Removal of microplastics and nanoplastics from urban waters: Separation and degradation. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 221:118820. [PMID: 35841788 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The omnipresent micro/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) in urban waters arouse great public concern. To build a MP/NP-free urban water system, enormous efforts have been made to meet this goal via separating and degrading MPs/NPs in urban waters. Herein, we comprehensively review the recent developments in the separation and degradation of MPs/NPs in urban waters. Efficient MP/NP separation techniques, such as adsorption, coagulation/flocculation, flotation, filtration, and magnetic separation are first summarized. The influence of functional materials/reagents, properties of MPs/NPs, and aquatic chemistry on the separation efficiency is analyzed. Then, MP/NP degradation methods, including electrochemical degradation, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), photodegradation, photocatalytic degradation, and biological degradation are detailed. Also, the effects of critical functional materials/organisms and operational parameters on degradation performance are discussed. At last, the current challenges and prospects in the separation, degradation, and further upcycling of MPs/NPs in urban waters are outlined. This review will potentially guide the development of next-generation technologies for MP/NP pollution control in urban waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijie Chen
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Wei Wei
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Hong Chen
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Interfacial Science and Engineering of Materials (SKLISEM), School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Bing-Jie Ni
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
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Mbachu O, Kaparaju P, Pratt C. Plastic pollution risks in bioretention systems: a case study. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2022:1-14. [PMID: 35084286 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2022.2034984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We investigated plastic pollution in soil-based stormwater bioretention systems (BRS), which are potentially important pollutant receptors and pathways. Our integrated study is the first of its kind, focusing on plastic abundance, size fractionation, composition, and interactions with urban metrics (including housing density and auxiliary stormwater treatment infrastructure) in BRS filter media. Our results revealed that mesoplastic (MEP) and microplastic (MP) concentrations in BRS are comparable with those reported in other stormwater systems (e.g. wetlands) as well as soils in other land use areas (e.g. agriculture). Distributional sampling within the BRS revealed MP abundances do not change with horizontal distance from the inlet to the outlet. However, MEP abundances drastically decreased towards the outlet, indicating plastic accumulation within BRS. This is important because MEPs can breakdown into MPs which can affect BRS function as well as mobilise downstream. Yet our data uncovered more complex mechanisms involved in BRS plastic fate, with composition data revealing that MPs are not simply breakdown products of MEPs but are instead derived from different sources. Composition, morphology and colour analysis confirmed that BRS polymer liners are a key source of MPs and MEPs in soil filter media. Multivariate analysis of the data with urban design metrics showed gross pollutant traps are effective at decreasing MP concentrations in BRS but not as effective at controlling MEPs. Our results point to complex plastic transmission and accumulation pathways in BRS. Interception measures can partially alleviate plastic risk, but more work is needed to elucidate plastic long-term fate in BRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluchi Mbachu
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Prasad Kaparaju
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Chris Pratt
- School of Environment and Science, Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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