1
|
Silverio MP, Neumann T, Schaubruch K, Heermann R, Pérez-García P, Chow J, Streit WR. Metagenome-derived SusD-homologs affiliated with Bacteroidota bind to synthetic polymers. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024:e0093324. [PMID: 38953372 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00933-24] [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: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Starch utilization system (Sus)D-homologs are well known for their carbohydrate-binding capabilities and are part of the sus operon in microorganisms affiliated with the phylum Bacteroidota. Until now, SusD-like proteins have been characterized regarding their affinity toward natural polymers. In this study, three metagenomic SusD homologs (designated SusD1, SusD38489, and SusD70111) were identified and tested with respect to binding to natural and non-natural polymers. SusD1 and SusD38489 are cellulose-binding modules, while SusD70111 preferentially binds chitin. Employing translational fusion proteins with superfolder GFP (sfGFP), pull-down assays, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) has provided evidence for binding to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and other synthetic polymers. Structural analysis suggested that a Trp triad might be involved in protein adsorption. Mutation of these residues to Ala resulted in an impaired adsorption to microcrystalline cellulose (MC), but not so to PET and other synthetic polymers. We believe that the characterized SusDs, alongside the methods and considerations presented in this work, will aid further research regarding bioremediation of plastics. IMPORTANCE SusD1 and SusD38489 can be considered for further applications regarding their putative adsorption toward fossil-fuel based polymers. This is the first time that SusD homologs from the polysaccharide utilization loci (PUL), largely described for the phylum Bacteroidota, are characterized as synthetic polymer-binding proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tabea Neumann
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kirsten Schaubruch
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Johannes-Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ralf Heermann
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Johannes-Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Pablo Pérez-García
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jennifer Chow
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang R Streit
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vural C, Ettadili H. Biodegradation of phthalic acid and terephthalic acid by Comamonas testosteroni strains. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2024:10.1007/s12223-024-01176-x. [PMID: 38809402 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-024-01176-x] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Phthalic acid isomers are the monomers of phthalate molecules, also known as phthalic acid esters, widely employed in the plastics industry. This study aims to investigate the biodegradation of phthalic acid (PA) and terephthalic acid (TPA) by five industry-borne Comamonas testosteroni strains: 3APTOL, 3ABBK, 2B, 3A1, and C8. To assess the ability of C. testosteroni strains to biodegrade phthalic acid isomers in fermentation media, an analytical method was employed, consisting of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses. Subsequently, molecular screening of the genomic and plasmid DNA was conducted to identify the degradative genes responsible for the breakdown of these chemicals. The genes of interest, including ophA2, tphA2, tphA3, pmdA, and pmdB, were screened by real-time PCR. The five C. testosteroni strains effectively degraded 100% of 100 mg/L PA (p = 0.033) and TPA (p = 0.0114). Molecular analyses indicated that all C. testosteroni strains contained the pertinent genes at different levels within their genomes and plasmids, as reflected in the threshold cycle (Ct) values. Additionally, DNA temperature of melting (Tm) analyses uncovered minor differences between groups of genes in genomic and plasmid DNA. C. testosteroni strains could be excellent candidates for the removal of phthalic acid isomers from environmental systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caner Vural
- Department of Biology, Molecular Biology Section, Pamukkale University, 20160, Denizli, Turkey.
| | - Hamza Ettadili
- Department of Biology, Molecular Biology Section, Pamukkale University, 20160, Denizli, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Calarnou L, Traïkia M, Leremboure M, Therias S, Gardette JL, Bussière PO, Malosse L, Dronet S, Besse-Hoggan P, Eyheraguibel B. Study of sequential abiotic and biotic degradation of styrene butadiene rubber. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:171928. [PMID: 38531457 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Styrene butadiene rubber is one of the main constituents of tire tread. During tire life, the tread material undergoes different stresses that impact its structure and chemical composition. Wear particles are then released into the environment as weathered material. To understand their fate, it is important to start with a better characterization of abiotic and biotic degradation of the elastomer material. A multi-disciplinary approach was implemented to study the photo- and thermo- degradation of non-vulcanized SBR films containing 15 w% styrene as well as their potential biodegradation by Rhodoccocus ruber and Gordonia polyisoprenivorans bacterial strains. Each ageing process leads to crosslinking reactions, much surface oxidation of the films and the production of hundreds of short chain compounds. These degradation products present a high level of unsaturation and oxidation and can be released into water to become potential substrates for microorganisms. Both strains were able to degrade from 0.2 to 1.2 % (% ThOD) of the aged SBR film after 30-day incubation while no biodegradation was observed on the pristine material. A 25-75 % decrease in the signal intensity of water extractable compounds was observed, suggesting that biomass production was linked to the consumption of low-molecular-weight degradation products. These results evidence the positive impact of abiotic degradation on the biodegradation process of styrene butadiene rubber.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurie Calarnou
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Mounir Traïkia
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Université Clermont Auvergne, Plateforme d'Exploration du Métabolisme, MetaboHUB Clermont, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Martin Leremboure
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sandrine Therias
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Jean-Luc Gardette
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Pierre-Olivier Bussière
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Lucie Malosse
- Manufacture Française des Pneumatiques MICHELIN, Centre de Technologies Ladoux, 63040 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Séverin Dronet
- Manufacture Française des Pneumatiques MICHELIN, Centre de Technologies Ladoux, 63040 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Pascale Besse-Hoggan
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Boris Eyheraguibel
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut de Chimie (ICCF), F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rahmati F, Sethi D, Shu W, Asgari Lajayer B, Mosaferi M, Thomson A, Price GW. Advances in microbial exoenzymes bioengineering for improvement of bioplastics degradation. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141749. [PMID: 38521099 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141749] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a major global concern, posing numerous challenges for the environment and wildlife. Most conventional ways of plastics degradation are inefficient and cause great damage to ecosystems. The development of biodegradable plastics offers a promising solution for waste management. These plastics are designed to break down under various conditions, opening up new possibilities to mitigate the negative impact of traditional plastics. Microbes, including bacteria and fungi, play a crucial role in the degradation of bioplastics by producing and secreting extracellular enzymes, such as cutinase, lipases, and proteases. However, these microbial enzymes are sensitive to extreme environmental conditions, such as temperature and acidity, affecting their functions and stability. To address these challenges, scientists have employed protein engineering and immobilization techniques to enhance enzyme stability and predict protein structures. Strategies such as improving enzyme and substrate interaction, increasing enzyme thermostability, reinforcing the bonding between the active site of the enzyme and substrate, and refining enzyme activity are being utilized to boost enzyme immobilization and functionality. Recently, bioengineering through gene cloning and expression in potential microorganisms, has revolutionized the biodegradation of bioplastics. This review aimed to discuss the most recent protein engineering strategies for modifying bioplastic-degrading enzymes in terms of stability and functionality, including enzyme thermostability enhancement, reinforcing the substrate binding to the enzyme active site, refining with other enzymes, and improvement of enzyme surface and substrate action. Additionally, discovered bioplastic-degrading exoenzymes by metagenomics techniques were emphasized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Rahmati
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Qom 37185364, Iran
| | - Debadatta Sethi
- Sugarcane Research Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Nayagarh, India
| | - Weixi Shu
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS, B2N 5E3, Canada
| | | | - Mohammad Mosaferi
- Health and Environment Research Center, Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Allan Thomson
- Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation., 173 Dr. Bernie MacDonald Dr., Bible Hill, Truro, NS, B6L 2H5, Canada
| | - G W Price
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS, B2N 5E3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Frey B, Aiesi M, Rast BM, Rüthi J, Julmi J, Stierli B, Qi W, Brunner I. Searching for new plastic-degrading enzymes from the plastisphere of alpine soils using a metagenomic mining approach. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300503. [PMID: 38578779 PMCID: PMC10997104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300503] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic materials, including microplastics, accumulate in all types of ecosystems, even in remote and cold environments such as the European Alps. This pollution poses a risk for the environment and humans and needs to be addressed. Using shotgun DNA metagenomics of soils collected in the eastern Swiss Alps at about 3,000 m a.s.l., we identified genes and their proteins that potentially can degrade plastics. We screened the metagenomes of the plastisphere and the bulk soil with a differential abundance analysis, conducted similarity-based screening with specific databases dedicated to putative plastic-degrading genes, and selected those genes with a high probability of signal peptides for extracellular export and a high confidence for functional domains. This procedure resulted in a final list of nine candidate genes. The lengths of the predicted proteins were between 425 and 845 amino acids, and the predicted genera producing these proteins belonged mainly to Caballeronia and Bradyrhizobium. We applied functional validation, using heterologous expression followed by enzymatic assays of the supernatant. Five of the nine proteins tested showed significantly increased activities when we used an esterase assay, and one of these five proteins from candidate genes, a hydrolase-type esterase, clearly had the highest activity, by more than double. We performed the fluorescence assays for plastic degradation of the plastic types BI-OPL and ecovio® only with proteins from the five candidate genes that were positively active in the esterase assay, but like the negative controls, these did not show any significantly increased activity. In contrast, the activity of the positive control, which contained a PLA-degrading gene insert known from the literature, was more than 20 times higher than that of the negative controls. These findings suggest that in silico screening followed by functional validation is suitable for finding new plastic-degrading enzymes. Although we only found one new esterase enzyme, our approach has the potential to be applied to any type of soil and to plastics in various ecosystems to search rapidly and efficiently for new plastic-degrading enzymes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beat Frey
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Margherita Aiesi
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
- Facoltà de Science Agrarie e Alimentari, University Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Basil M. Rast
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Joel Rüthi
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Jérôme Julmi
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Beat Stierli
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Weihong Qi
- Functional Genomics Center Zürich, ETH Zürich and University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics SIB, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ivano Brunner
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pawano O, Jenpuntarat N, Streit WR, Pérez-García P, Pongtharangkul T, Phinyocheep P, Thayanukul P, Euanorasetr J, Intra B. Exploring untapped bacterial communities and potential polypropylene-degrading enzymes from mangrove sediment through metagenomics analysis. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1347119. [PMID: 38638899 PMCID: PMC11024650 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1347119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The versatility of plastic has resulted in huge amounts being consumed annually. Mismanagement of post-consumption plastic material has led to plastic waste pollution. Biodegradation of plastic by microorganisms has emerged as a potential solution to this problem. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the microbial communities involved in the biodegradation of polypropylene (PP). Mangrove soil was enriched with virgin PP sheets or chemically pretreated PP comparing between 2 and 4 months enrichment to promote the growth of bacteria involved in PP biodegradation. The diversity of the resulting microbial communities was accessed through 16S metagenomic sequencing. The results indicated that Xanthomonadaceae, unclassified Gaiellales, and Nocardioidaceae were promoted during the enrichment. Additionally, shotgun metagenomics was used to investigate enzymes involved in plastic biodegradation. The results revealed the presence of various putative plastic-degrading enzymes in the mangrove soil, including alcohol dehydrogenase, aldehyde dehydrogenase, and alkane hydroxylase. The degradation of PP plastic was determined using Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Water Contact Angle measurements. The FTIR spectra showed a reduced peak intensity of enriched and pretreated PP compared to the control. SEM images revealed the presence of bacterial biofilms as well as cracks on the PP surface. Corresponding to the FTIR and SEM analysis, the water contact angle measurement indicated a decrease in the hydrophobicity of PP and pretreated PP surface during the enrichment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Onnipa Pawano
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Mahidol University and Osaka Collaborative Research Center on Bioscience and Biotechnology, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nuttarin Jenpuntarat
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Mahidol University and Osaka Collaborative Research Center on Bioscience and Biotechnology, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wolfgang R. Streit
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Pablo Pérez-García
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Molecular Microbiology, Institute of General Microbiology, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Pranee Phinyocheep
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Parinda Thayanukul
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Science, Center of Excellence for Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases, Mahidol University at Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Jirayut Euanorasetr
- Laboratory of Biotechnological Research for Energy and Bioactive Compound (BREBC), Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Bungonsiri Intra
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Mahidol University and Osaka Collaborative Research Center on Bioscience and Biotechnology, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pereyra‐Camacho MA, Pardo I. Plastics and the Sustainable Development Goals: From waste to wealth with microbial recycling and upcycling. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14459. [PMID: 38588222 PMCID: PMC11001195 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14459] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics pollution has become one of the greatest concerns of the 21st century. To date, around 10 billion tons of plastics have been produced almost exclusively from non-renewable sources, and of these, <10% have been recycled. The majority of discarded plastic waste (>70%) is accumulating in landfills or the environment, causing severe impacts to natural ecosystems and human health. Considering how plastics are present in every aspect of our daily lives, it is evident that a transition towards a Circular Economy of plastics is essential to achieve several of the Sustainable Development Goals. In this editorial, we highlight how microbial biotechnology can contribute to this shift, with a special focus on the biological recycling of conventional plastics and the upcycling of plastic-waste feedstocks into new value-added products. Although important hurdles will need to be overcome in this endeavour, recent success stories highlight how interdisciplinary approaches can bring us closer to a bio-based economy for the sustainable management of plastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Pereyra‐Camacho
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSICMadridSpain
- Interdisciplinary Platform SusPlast, CSICMadridSpain
| | - Isabel Pardo
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSICMadridSpain
- Interdisciplinary Platform SusPlast, CSICMadridSpain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Obrador‐Viel T, Zadjelovic V, Nogales B, Bosch R, Christie‐Oleza JA. Assessing microbial plastic degradation requires robust methods. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14457. [PMID: 38568802 PMCID: PMC10990042 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14457] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics are versatile materials that have the potential to propel humanity towards circularity and ultimate societal sustainability. However, the escalating concern surrounding plastic pollution has garnered significant attention, leading to widespread negative perceptions of these materials. Here, we question the role microbes may play in plastic pollution bioremediation by (i) defining polymer biodegradability (i.e., recalcitrant, hydrolysable and biodegradable polymers) and (ii) reviewing best practices for evaluating microbial biodegradation of plastics. We establish recommendations to facilitate the implementation of rigorous methodologies in future studies on plastic biodegradation, aiming to push this field towards the use of isotopic labelling to confirm plastic biodegradation and further determine the molecular mechanisms involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Vinko Zadjelovic
- Centro de Bioinnovación de Antofagasta (CBIA), Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Recursos BiológicosUniversidad de AntofagastaAntofagastaChile
- Centre for Biotechnology & Bioengineering (CeBiB)SantiagoChile
| | - Balbina Nogales
- Department of BiologyUniversity of the Balearic IslandsPalmaSpain
| | - Rafael Bosch
- Department of BiologyUniversity of the Balearic IslandsPalmaSpain
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Serrano‐Aguirre L, Prieto MA. Can bioplastics always offer a truly sustainable alternative to fossil-based plastics? Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14458. [PMID: 38568795 PMCID: PMC10990045 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14458] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Bioplastics, comprised of bio-based and/or biodegradable polymers, have the potential to play a crucial role in the transition towards a sustainable circular economy. The use of biodegradable polymers not only leads to reduced greenhouse gas emissions but also might address the problem of plastic waste persisting in the environment, especially when removal is challenging. Nevertheless, biodegradable plastics should not be considered as substitutes for proper waste management practices, given that their biodegradability strongly depends on environmental conditions. Among the challenges hindering the sustainable implementation of bioplastics in the market, the development of effective downstream recycling routes is imperative, given the increasing production volumes of these materials. Here, we discuss about the most advisable end-of-life scenarios for bioplastics. Various recycling strategies, including mechanical, chemical or biological (both enzymatic and microbial) approaches, should be considered. Employing enzymes as biocatalysts emerges as a more selective and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical recycling, allowing the production of new bioplastics and added value and high-quality products. Other pending concerns for industrial implementation of bioplastics include misinformation among end users, the lack of a standardised bioplastic labelling, unclear life cycle assessment guidelines and the need for higher financial investments. Although further research and development efforts are essential to foster the sustainable and widespread application of bioplastics, significant strides have already been made in this direction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Serrano‐Aguirre
- Polymer Biotechnology Group, Department of Plant and Microbial Biotechnology, Biological Research Centre Margarita SalasSpanish National Research Council (CIB‐CSIC)MadridSpain
- Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics Towards a Circular Economy‐CSIC (SusPlast‐CSIC)MadridSpain
| | - M. Auxiliadora Prieto
- Polymer Biotechnology Group, Department of Plant and Microbial Biotechnology, Biological Research Centre Margarita SalasSpanish National Research Council (CIB‐CSIC)MadridSpain
- Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics Towards a Circular Economy‐CSIC (SusPlast‐CSIC)MadridSpain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Xu L, Li Z, Wang L, Xu Z, Zhang S, Zhang Q. Progress in polystyrene biodegradation by insect gut microbiota. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:143. [PMID: 38530548 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03932-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is frequently used in the plastics industry. However, its structural stability and difficulty to break down lead to an abundance of plastic waste in the environment, resulting in micro-nano plastics (MNPs). As MNPs are severe hazards to both human and environmental health, it is crucial to develop innovative treatment technologies to degrade plastic waste. The biodegradation of plastics by insect gut microorganisms has gained attention as it is environmentally friendly, efficient, and safe. However, our knowledge of the biodegradation of PS is still limited. This review summarizes recent research advances on PS biodegradation by gut microorganisms/enzymes from insect larvae of different species, and schematic pathways of the degradation process are discussed in depth. Additionally, the prospect of using modern biotechnology, such as genetic engineering and systems biology, to identify novel PS-degrading microbes/functional genes/enzymes and to realize new strategies for PS biodegradation is highlighted. Challenges and limitations faced by the application of genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) and multiomics technologies in the field of plastic pollution bioremediation are also discussed. This review encourages the further exploration of the biodegradation of PS by insect gut microbes/enzymes, offering a cutting-edge perspective to identify PS biodegradation pathways and create effective biodegradation strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luhui Xu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zelin Li
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zihang Xu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Shulin Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Qinghua Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Parida D, Katare K, Ganguly A, Chakraborty D, Konar O, Nogueira R, Bala K. Molecular docking and metagenomics assisted mitigation of microplastic pollution. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 351:141271. [PMID: 38262490 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141271] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, tiny, flimsy, and direct progenitors of principal and subsidiary plastics, cause environmental degradation in aquatic and terrestrial entities. Contamination concerns include irrevocable impacts, potential cytotoxicity, and negative health effects on mortals. The detection, recovery, and degradation strategies of these pollutants in various biota and ecosystems, as well as their impact on plants, animals, and humans, have been a topic of significant interest. But the natural environment is infested with several types of plastics, all having different chemical makeup, structure, shape, and origin. Plastic trash acts as a substrate for microbial growth, creating biofilms on the plastisphere surface. This colonizing microbial diversity can be glimpsed with meta-genomics, a culture-independent approach. Owing to its comprehensive description of microbial communities, genealogical evidence on unconventional biocatalysts or enzymes, genomic correlations, evolutionary profile, and function, it is being touted as one of the promising tools in identifying novel enzymes for the degradation of polymers. Additionally, computational tools such as molecular docking can predict the binding of these novel enzymes to the polymer substrate, which can be validated through in vitro conditions for its environmentally feasible applications. This review mainly deals with the exploration of metagenomics along with computational tools to provide a clearer perspective into the microbial potential in the biodegradation of microplastics. The computational tools due to their polymathic nature will be quintessential in identifying the enzyme structure, binding affinities of the prospective enzymes to the substrates, and foretelling of degradation pathways involved which can be quite instrumental in the furtherance of the plastic degradation studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Parida
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, 453552, India.
| | - Konica Katare
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, 453552, India.
| | - Atmaadeep Ganguly
- Department of Microbiology, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, West Bengal State University, Kolkata, 700118, India.
| | - Disha Chakraborty
- Department of Botany, Shri Shikshayatan College, University of Calcutta, Lord Sinha Road, Kolkata, 700071, India.
| | - Oisi Konar
- Department of Botany, Shri Shikshayatan College, University of Calcutta, Lord Sinha Road, Kolkata, 700071, India.
| | - Regina Nogueira
- Institute of Sanitary Engineering and Waste Management, Leibniz Universität, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Kiran Bala
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, 453552, India.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Peydayesh M, Boschi E, Bagnani M, Tay D, Donat F, Almohammadi H, Li M, Usuelli M, Shiroka T, Mezzenga R. Hybrid Amyloid-Chitin Nanofibrils for Magnetic and Catalytic Aerogels. ACS NANO 2024; 18:6690-6701. [PMID: 38345899 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c00883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
In the quest for a sustainable and circular economy, it is essential to explore environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based materials. A promising pathway toward this goal lies in the leveraging of biopolymers derived from food waste, such as proteins and polysaccharides, to develop advanced sustainable materials. Here, we design versatile hybrid materials by hybridizing amyloid nanofibrils derived by self-assembly of whey, a dairy byproduct, with chitin nanofibrils exfoliated from the two distinct allomorphs of α-chitin and β-chitin, extracted from seafood waste. Various hydrogels and aerogels were developed via the hybridization and reassembly of these biopolymeric nanobuilding blocks, and they were further magnetized upon biomineralization with iron nanoparticles. The pH-phase diagram highlights the significant role of electrostatic interactions in gel formation, between positively charged amyloid fibrils and negatively charged chitin nanofibrils. Hybrid magnetic aerogels exhibit a ferromagnetic response characterized by a low coercivity (<50 Oe) and a high specific magnetization (>40 emu/g) at all temperatures, making them particularly suitable for superparamagnetic applications. Additionally, these aerogels exhibit a distinct magnetic transition, featuring a higher blocking temperature (200 K) compared to previously reported similar nanoparticles (160 K), indicating enhanced magnetic stability at elevated temperatures. Finally, we demonstrate the practical application of these hybrid magnetic materials as catalysts for carbon monoxide oxidation, showcasing their potential in environmental pollution control and highlighting their versatility as catalyst supports.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Peydayesh
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Enrico Boschi
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Cellulose & Wood Materials, Empa-Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Massimo Bagnani
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Tay
- Laboratorium für Festkörperphysik, ETH Zürich, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Felix Donat
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zürich, Leonhardstrasse 21, CH-8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Hamed Almohammadi
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mingqin Li
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mattia Usuelli
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Toni Shiroka
- Laboratorium für Festkörperphysik, ETH Zürich, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Muon Spin Spectroscopy, Paul Scherrer Institute, CH-5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Raffaele Mezzenga
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Materials, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hu H, Li J, Jiang W, Jiang Y, Wan Y, Wang Y, Xin F, Zhang W. Strategies for the biological synthesis of D-glucuronic acid and its derivatives. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:94. [PMID: 38349469 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03900-8] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
D-glucuronic acid is a kind of glucose derivative, which has excellent properties such as anti-oxidation, treatment of liver disease and hyperlipidemia, and has been widely used in medicine, cosmetics, food and other fields. The traditional production methods of D-glucuronic acid mainly include natural extraction and chemical synthesis, which can no longer meet the growing market demand. The production of D-glucuronic acid by biocatalysis has become a promising alternative method because of its high efficiency and environmental friendliness. This review describes different production methods of D-glucuronic acid, including single enzyme catalysis, multi-enzyme cascade, whole cell catalysis and co-culture, as well as the intervention of some special catalysts. In addition, some feasible enzyme engineering strategies are provided, including the application of enzyme immobilized scaffold, enzyme mutation and high-throughput screening, which provide good ideas for the research of D-glucuronic acid biocatalysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haibo Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Puzhu South Road 30#, Nanjing, 211800, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Puzhu South Road 30#, Nanjing, 211800, People's Republic of China
| | - Wankui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Puzhu South Road 30#, Nanjing, 211800, People's Republic of China
| | - Yujia Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Puzhu South Road 30#, Nanjing, 211800, People's Republic of China
| | - Yidong Wan
- Jiangsu Biochemical Chiral Engineering Technology Research Center, Changmao Biochemical Engineering Co., Ltd, Changzhou, 213034, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanxia Wang
- College of Food Science and Light Industry, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengxue Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Puzhu South Road 30#, Nanjing, 211800, People's Republic of China.
- Jiangsu Biochemical Chiral Engineering Technology Research Center, Changmao Biochemical Engineering Co., Ltd, Changzhou, 213034, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wenming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Puzhu South Road 30#, Nanjing, 211800, People's Republic of China.
- Jiangsu Biochemical Chiral Engineering Technology Research Center, Changmao Biochemical Engineering Co., Ltd, Changzhou, 213034, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lv S, Li Y, Zhao S, Shao Z. Biodegradation of Typical Plastics: From Microbial Diversity to Metabolic Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:593. [PMID: 38203764 PMCID: PMC10778777 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic production has increased dramatically, leading to accumulated plastic waste in the ocean. Marine plastics can be broken down into microplastics (<5 mm) by sunlight, machinery, and pressure. The accumulation of microplastics in organisms and the release of plastic additives can adversely affect the health of marine organisms. Biodegradation is one way to address plastic pollution in an environmentally friendly manner. Marine microorganisms can be more adapted to fluctuating environmental conditions such as salinity, temperature, pH, and pressure compared with terrestrial microorganisms, providing new opportunities to address plastic pollution. Pseudomonadota (Proteobacteria), Bacteroidota (Bacteroidetes), Bacillota (Firmicutes), and Cyanobacteria were frequently found on plastic biofilms and may degrade plastics. Currently, diverse plastic-degrading bacteria are being isolated from marine environments such as offshore and deep oceanic waters, especially Pseudomonas spp. Bacillus spp. Alcanivoras spp. and Actinomycetes. Some marine fungi and algae have also been revealed as plastic degraders. In this review, we focused on the advances in plastic biodegradation by marine microorganisms and their enzymes (esterase, cutinase, laccase, etc.) involved in the process of biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polypropylene (PP) and highlighted the need to study plastic biodegradation in the deep sea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Lv
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen 361005, China; (S.L.); (Y.L.); (S.Z.)
- School of Environmental Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Yufei Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen 361005, China; (S.L.); (Y.L.); (S.Z.)
- School of Marine Sciences, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Sufang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen 361005, China; (S.L.); (Y.L.); (S.Z.)
| | - Zongze Shao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, Xiamen 361005, China; (S.L.); (Y.L.); (S.Z.)
- School of Environmental Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
- School of Marine Sciences, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519000, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Díaz-García L, Chuvochina M, Feuerriegel G, Bunk B, Spröer C, Streit WR, Rodriguez-R LM, Overmann J, Jiménez DJ. Andean soil-derived lignocellulolytic bacterial consortium as a source of novel taxa and putative plastic-active enzymes. Syst Appl Microbiol 2024; 47:126485. [PMID: 38211536 DOI: 10.1016/j.syapm.2023.126485] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
An easy and straightforward way to engineer microbial environmental communities is by setting up liquid enrichment cultures containing a specific substrate as the sole source of carbon. Here, we analyzed twenty single-contig high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) retrieved from a microbial consortium (T6) that was selected by the dilution-to-stimulation approach using Andean soil as inoculum and lignocellulose as a selection pressure. Based on genomic metrics (e.g., average nucleotide and amino acid identities) and phylogenomic analyses, 15 out of 20 MAGs were found to represent novel bacterial species, with one of those (MAG_26) belonging to a novel genus closely related to Caenibius spp. (Sphingomonadaceae). Following the rules and requirements of the SeqCode, we propose the name Andeanibacterium colombiense gen. nov., sp. nov. for this taxon. A subsequent functional annotation of all MAGs revealed that MAG_7 (Pseudobacter hemicellulosilyticus sp. nov.) contains 20, 19 and 16 predicted genes from carbohydrate-active enzymes families GH43, GH2 and GH92, respectively. Its lignocellulolytic gene profile resembles that of MAG_2 (the most abundant member) and MAG_3858, both of which belong to the Sphingobacteriaceae family. Using a database that contains experimentally verified plastic-active enzymes (PAZymes), twenty-seven putative bacterial polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-active enzymes (i.e., alpha/beta-fold hydrolases) were detected in all MAGs. A maximum of five putative PETases were found in MAG_3858, and two PETases were found to be encoded by A. colombiense. In conclusion, we demonstrate that lignocellulose-enriched liquid cultures coupled with genome-resolved metagenomics are suitable approaches to unveil the hidden bacterial diversity and its polymer-degrading potential in Andean soil ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Díaz-García
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Advanced Biomanufacturing Centre, University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Maria Chuvochina
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Australian Centre for Ecogenomics, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Golo Feuerriegel
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Boyke Bunk
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Cathrin Spröer
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Wolfgang R Streit
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Luis M Rodriguez-R
- Department of Microbiology and Digital Science Center (DiSC), University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jörg Overmann
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany; Braunschweig University of Technology, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Diego Javier Jiménez
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Microbiomes and Bioenergy Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang H, Dierkes RF, Perez-Garcia P, Costanzi E, Dittrich J, Cea PA, Gurschke M, Applegate V, Partus K, Schmeisser C, Pfleger C, Gohlke H, Smits SHJ, Chow J, Streit WR. The metagenome-derived esterase PET40 is highly promiscuous and hydrolyses polyethylene terephthalate (PET). FEBS J 2024; 291:70-91. [PMID: 37549040 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16924] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a widely used synthetic polymer and known to contaminate marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Only few PET-active microorganisms and enzymes (PETases) are currently known, and it is debated whether degradation activity for PET originates from promiscuous enzymes with broad substrate spectra that primarily act on natural polymers or other bulky substrates, or whether microorganisms evolved their genetic makeup to accepting PET as a carbon source. Here, we present a predicted diene lactone hydrolase designated PET40, which acts on a broad spectrum of substrates, including PET. It is the first esterase with activity on PET from a GC-rich Gram-positive Amycolatopsis species belonging to the Pseudonocardiaceae (Actinobacteria). It is highly conserved within the genera Amycolatopsis and Streptomyces. PET40 was identified by sequence-based metagenome search using a PETase-specific hidden Markov model. Besides acting on PET, PET40 has a versatile substrate spectrum, hydrolyzing δ-lactones, β-lactam antibiotics, the polyester-polyurethane Impranil® DLN, and various para-nitrophenyl ester substrates. Molecular docking suggests that the PET degradative activity is likely a result of the promiscuity of PET40, as potential binding modes were found for substrates encompassing mono(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate, bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate, and a PET trimer. We also solved the crystal structure of the inactive PET40 variant S178A to 1.60 Å resolution. PET40 is active throughout a wide pH (pH 4-10) and temperature range (4-65 °C) and remarkably stable in the presence of 5% SDS, making it a promising enzyme as a starting point for further investigations and optimization approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongli Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Germany
| | - Robert F Dierkes
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Germany
| | - Pablo Perez-Garcia
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Germany
- Molecular Microbiology, Institute for General Microbiology, Kiel University, Germany
| | - Elisa Costanzi
- Center for Structural Studies, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jonas Dittrich
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Pablo A Cea
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marno Gurschke
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Germany
| | - Violetta Applegate
- Center for Structural Studies, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kristina Partus
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christel Schmeisser
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Pfleger
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Holger Gohlke
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG-4: Bioinformatics), John von Neumann Institute for Computing and Jülich Supercomputing Centre, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Germany
| | - Sander H J Smits
- Center for Structural Studies, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Biochemistry, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jennifer Chow
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang R Streit
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Canellas ALB, Abdon BB, Diniz MN, da Silva Oliveira Alves G, de Paula Lourenço MF, Machado WTV, Giambiagi-deMarval M, de Oliveira BFR, Laport MS. Antimicrobial resistance and biotechnological potential of plastic-associated bacteria isolated from an urban estuary. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2851-2863. [PMID: 37950375 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16540] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Plastics have quickly become one of the major pollutants in aquatic environments worldwide and solving the plastic pollution crisis is considered a central goal of modern society. In this study, 10 different plastic samples, including high- and low-density polyethylene and polypropylene, were collected from a deeply polluted urban estuary in Brazil. By employing different isolation and analysis approaches to investigate plastic-associated bacteria, a predominance of potentially pathogenic bacteria such as Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, and Vibrio was observed throughout all plastic samples. Bacteria typically found in the aquatic environment harboured clinically relevant genes encoding resistance to carbapenems (blaKPC ) and colistin (such as mcr-3 and mcr-4), along with genetic determinants associated with potentially active gene mobilization. Whole genome sequencing and annotation of three plastic-associated Vibrio strains further demonstrated the carriage of mobile genetic elements and antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes. On the other hand, bacteria isolated from the same samples were also able to produce esterases, lipases, and bioemulsifiers, thus highlighting that the plastisphere could also be of special interest from a biotechnological perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Luiza Bauer Canellas
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Balthazar Abdon
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Matheus Nunes Diniz
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Wilson Thadeu Valle Machado
- Departamento de Geoquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcia Giambiagi-deMarval
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Marinella Silva Laport
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Quan Z, Zhao Z, Liu Z, Wang W, Yao S, Liu H, Lin X, Li QX, Yan H, Liu X. Biodegradation of polystyrene microplastics by superworms (larve of Zophobas atratus): Gut microbiota transition, and putative metabolic ways. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 343:140246. [PMID: 37741374 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Superworm (larve of Zophobas atratus) could consume foams of expanded polystyrene plastics. However, there is no sufficient understanding of the impact of microplastics on superworms and the degradation pathways of polystyrene. Herein, we explored the weight and survival change of superworms while fed with polystyrene microplastics, and found that survival rate and mean weight would reduce. In terms of gut microbial community structure of surperworms, significant shifts were detected with the relative abundance of Hafnia-Obesumbacterium sp. increasing. In addition, we domesticated two microbiota from the gut of superworms, and confirmed their ability to degrade PS in vitro. The last but most important, 1291 metabolites were identified by HPLC-TOF-MS/MS, and six metabolites related to polystyrene degradation were identified through comparative metabolomic analysis. According to the content and pathways of these metabolites, three metabolic pathways of polystyrene were (a) styrene-phenylacetyl-CoA-L-2-aminoadipic acid; (b) styrene-phenylacetyl-CoA-benzaldehyde; (c) styrene-2-hydroxyacetophenone. These results would help to further screen bacteria of PS degradation and investigate PS metabolic pathways in invertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaolin Quan
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zixi Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zhimin Liu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Weijun Wang
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Shunyu Yao
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Huiren Liu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Lin
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Qing X Li
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Hai Yan
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaolu Liu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lee GH, Kim DW, Jin YH, Kim SM, Lim ES, Cha MJ, Ko JK, Gong G, Lee SM, Um Y, Han SO, Ahn JH. Biotechnological Plastic Degradation and Valorization Using Systems Metabolic Engineering. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15181. [PMID: 37894861 PMCID: PMC10607142 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015181] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Various kinds of plastics have been developed over the past century, vastly improving the quality of life. However, the indiscriminate production and irresponsible management of plastics have led to the accumulation of plastic waste, emerging as a pressing environmental concern. To establish a clean and sustainable plastic economy, plastic recycling becomes imperative to mitigate resource depletion and replace non-eco-friendly processes, such as incineration. Although chemical and mechanical recycling technologies exist, the prevalence of composite plastics in product manufacturing complicates recycling efforts. In recent years, the biodegradation of plastics using enzymes and microorganisms has been reported, opening a new possibility for biotechnological plastic degradation and bio-upcycling. This review provides an overview of microbial strains capable of degrading various plastics, highlighting key enzymes and their role. In addition, recent advances in plastic waste valorization technology based on systems metabolic engineering are explored in detail. Finally, future perspectives on systems metabolic engineering strategies to develop a circular plastic bioeconomy are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ga Hyun Lee
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Wook Kim
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Hui Jin
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Min Kim
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui Seok Lim
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Ji Cha
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Ja Kyong Ko
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Energy and Environment Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyeongtaek Gong
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Energy and Environment Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Mi Lee
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Energy and Environment Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngsoon Um
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Energy and Environment Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Ok Han
- Department of Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Ho Ahn
- Clean Energy Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Energy and Environment Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Perez-Garcia P, Chow J, Costanzi E, Gurschke M, Dittrich J, Dierkes RF, Molitor R, Applegate V, Feuerriegel G, Tete P, Danso D, Thies S, Schumacher J, Pfleger C, Jaeger KE, Gohlke H, Smits SHJ, Schmitz RA, Streit WR. An archaeal lid-containing feruloyl esterase degrades polyethylene terephthalate. Commun Chem 2023; 6:193. [PMID: 37697032 PMCID: PMC10495362 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-023-00998-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a commodity polymer known to globally contaminate marine and terrestrial environments. Today, around 80 bacterial and fungal PET-active enzymes (PETases) are known, originating from four bacterial and two fungal phyla. In contrast, no archaeal enzyme had been identified to degrade PET. Here we report on the structural and biochemical characterization of PET46 (RLI42440.1), an archaeal promiscuous feruloyl esterase exhibiting degradation activity on semi-crystalline PET powder comparable to IsPETase and LCC (wildtypes), and higher activity on bis-, and mono-(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET and MHET). The enzyme, found by a sequence-based metagenome search, is derived from a non-cultivated, deep-sea Candidatus Bathyarchaeota archaeon. Biochemical characterization demonstrated that PET46 is a promiscuous, heat-adapted hydrolase. Its crystal structure was solved at a resolution of 1.71 Å. It shares the core alpha/beta-hydrolase fold with bacterial PETases, but contains a unique lid common in feruloyl esterases, which is involved in substrate binding. Thus, our study widens the currently known diversity of PET-hydrolyzing enzymes, by demonstrating PET depolymerization by a plant cell wall-degrading esterase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Perez-Garcia
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute for General Microbiology, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jennifer Chow
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Elisa Costanzi
- Center for Structural Studies (CSS), Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marno Gurschke
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Dittrich
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Robert F Dierkes
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rebecka Molitor
- Institute of Molecular Enzyme Technology (IMET), Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Jülich, Germany
| | - Violetta Applegate
- Center for Structural Studies (CSS), Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Golo Feuerriegel
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Prince Tete
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dominik Danso
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Thies
- Institute of Molecular Enzyme Technology (IMET), Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Jülich, Germany
| | - Julia Schumacher
- Center for Structural Studies (CSS), Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christopher Pfleger
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl-Erich Jaeger
- Institute of Molecular Enzyme Technology (IMET), Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Jülich, Germany
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Holger Gohlke
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Bio- and Geosciences (IBG-4: Bioinformatics), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Sander H J Smits
- Center for Structural Studies (CSS), Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Biochemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ruth A Schmitz
- Institute for General Microbiology, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Wolfgang R Streit
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Klose L, Meyer-Heydecke N, Wongwattanarat S, Chow J, Pérez García P, Carré C, Streit W, Antranikian G, Romero AM, Liese A. Towards Sustainable Recycling of Epoxy-Based Polymers: Approaches and Challenges of Epoxy Biodegradation. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2653. [PMID: 37376299 DOI: 10.3390/polym15122653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epoxy resins are highly valued for their remarkable mechanical and chemical properties and are extensively used in various applications such as coatings, adhesives, and fiber-reinforced composites in lightweight construction. Composites are especially important for the development and implementation of sustainable technologies such as wind power, energy-efficient aircrafts, and electric cars. Despite their advantages, their non-biodegradability raises challenges for the recycling of polymer and composites in particular. Conventional methods employed for epoxy recycling are characterized by their high energy consumption and the utilization of toxic chemicals, rendering them rather unsustainable. Recent progress has been made in the field of plastic biodegradation, which is considered more sustainable than energy-intensive mechanical or thermal recycling methods. However, the current successful approaches in plastic biodegradation are predominantly focused on polyester-based polymers, leaving more recalcitrant plastics underrepresented in this area of research. Epoxy polymers, characterized by their strong cross-linking and predominantly ether-based backbone, exhibit a highly rigid and durable structure, placing them within this category. Therefore, the objective of this review paper is to examine the various approaches that have been employed for the biodegradation of epoxy so far. Additionally, the paper sheds light on the analytical techniques utilized in the development of these recycling methods. Moreover, the review addresses the challenges and opportunities entailed in epoxy recycling through bio-based approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leon Klose
- Institute of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University of Technology, 21073 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Neele Meyer-Heydecke
- Institute of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University of Technology, 21073 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sasipa Wongwattanarat
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jennifer Chow
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Pablo Pérez García
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Camille Carré
- Airbus Defence and Space GmbH, Central Research and Technology, 81663 Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Streit
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Hamburg, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Garabed Antranikian
- Institute of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University of Technology, 21073 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ana Malvis Romero
- Institute of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University of Technology, 21073 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Liese
- Institute of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University of Technology, 21073 Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Jayan N, Skariyachan S, Sebastian D. The escalated potential of the novel isolate Bacillus cereus NJD1 for effective biodegradation of LDPE films without pre-treatment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 455:131623. [PMID: 37207482 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
This study focused on the biodegradation of LDPE films using a novel isolate of Bacillus obtained from soil samples collected from a 20-year-old plastic waste dump. The aim was to evaluate the biodegradability of LDPE films treated with this bacterial isolate. The results indicated a 43% weight loss of LDPE films within 120 days of treatment. The biodegradability of LDPE films was confirmed through various testing methods, including BATH, FDA, CO2 evolution tests, and changes in total cell growth count, protein content, viability, pH of the medium, and release of microplastics. The bacterial enzymes, including laccases, lipases, and proteases, were also identified. SEM analysis revealed biofilm formation and surface changes in treated LDPE films, while EDAX analysis showed a reduction in carbon elements. AFM analysis demonstrated differences in roughness compared to the control. Furthermore, wettability increased and tensile strength decreased, confirming the biodegradation of the isolate. FTIR spectral analysis showed changes in skeletal vibrations, such as stretches and bends, in the linear structure of polyethylene. FTIR imaging and GC-MS analysis also confirmed the biodegradation of LDPE films by the novel isolate identified as Bacillus cereus strain NJD1. The study highlights the potentiality of the bacterial isolate for safe and effective microbial remediation of LDPE films.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nithya Jayan
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Calicut, Malappuram, Kerala 673635, India
| | - Sinosh Skariyachan
- St. Pius X College Rajapuram, Department of Microbiology, Kasaragod, India
| | - Denoj Sebastian
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Calicut, Malappuram, Kerala 673635, India.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yu Y, Miao L, Adyel TM, Waldschläger K, Wu J, Hou J. Aquatic plastisphere: Interactions between plastics and biofilms. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 322:121196. [PMID: 36736560 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Because of the high production rates, low recycling rates, and poor waste management of plastics, an increasing amount of plastic is entering the aquatic environment, where it can provide new ecological niches for microbial communities and form a so-called plastisphere. Recent studies have focused on the one-way impact of plastic substrata or biofilm communities. However, our understanding of the two-way interactions between plastics and biofilms is still limited. This review first summarizes the formation process and the co-occurrence network analysis of the aquatic plastisphere to comprehensively illustrate the succession pattern of biofilm communities and the potential consistency between keystone taxa and specific environmental behavior of the plastisphere. Furthermore, this review sheds light on mutual interactions between plastics and biofilms. Plastic properties, environmental conditions, and colonization time affect biofilm development. Meanwhile, the biofilm communities, in turn, influence the environmental behaviors of plastics, including transport, contaminant accumulation, and especially the fragmentation and degradation of plastics. Based on a systematic literature review and cross-referencing from these disciplines, the current research focus, and future challenges in exploring aquatic plastisphere development and biofilm-plastic interactions are proposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, 8093, Switzerland
| | - Lingzhan Miao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Kryss Waldschläger
- Hydrology and Quantitative Water Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Jun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Microbial Enzyme Biotechnology to Reach Plastic Waste Circularity: Current Status, Problems and Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043877. [PMID: 36835289 PMCID: PMC9967032 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043877] [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: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of synthetic plastic waste in the environment has become a global concern. Microbial enzymes (purified or as whole-cell biocatalysts) represent emerging biotechnological tools for waste circularity; they can depolymerize materials into reusable building blocks, but their contribution must be considered within the context of present waste management practices. This review reports on the prospective of biotechnological tools for plastic bio-recycling within the framework of plastic waste management in Europe. Available biotechnology tools can support polyethylene terephthalate (PET) recycling. However, PET represents only ≈7% of unrecycled plastic waste. Polyurethanes, the principal unrecycled waste fraction, together with other thermosets and more recalcitrant thermoplastics (e.g., polyolefins) are the next plausible target for enzyme-based depolymerization, even if this process is currently effective only on ideal polyester-based polymers. To extend the contribution of biotechnology to plastic circularity, optimization of collection and sorting systems should be considered to feed chemoenzymatic technologies for the treatment of more recalcitrant and mixed polymers. In addition, new bio-based technologies with a lower environmental impact in comparison with the present approaches should be developed to depolymerize (available or new) plastic materials, that should be designed for the required durability and for being susceptible to the action of enzymes.
Collapse
|
26
|
Holst LH, Madsen NG, Toftgård FT, Rønne F, Moise IM, Petersen EI, Fojan P. De novo design of a polycarbonate hydrolase. Protein Eng Des Sel 2023; 36:gzad022. [PMID: 38035789 DOI: 10.1093/protein/gzad022] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Enzymatic degradation of plastics is currently limited to the use of engineered natural enzymes. As of yet, all engineering approaches applied to plastic degrading enzymes retain the natural $\alpha /\beta $-fold. While mutations can be used to increase thermostability, an inherent maximum likely exists for the $\alpha /\beta $-fold. It is thus of interest to introduce catalytic activity toward plastics in a different protein fold to escape the sequence space of plastic degrading enzymes. Here, a method for designing highly thermostable enzymes that can degrade plastics is described. With the help of Rosetta an active site catalysing the hydrolysis of polycarbonate is introduced into a set of thermostable scaffolds. Through computational evaluation, a potential PCase was selected and produced recombinantly in Escherichia coli. Thermal analysis suggests that the design has a melting temperature of >95$^{\circ }$C. Activity toward polycarbonate was confirmed using atomic force spectroscopy (AFM), proving the successful design of a PCase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Holst
- Material Science and Engineering Group, Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Niklas G Madsen
- Material Science and Engineering Group, Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Freja T Toftgård
- Material Science and Engineering Group, Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Freja Rønne
- Material Science and Engineering Group, Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ioana-Malina Moise
- Material Science and Engineering Group, Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Evamaria I Petersen
- Material Science and Engineering Group, Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter Fojan
- Material Science and Engineering Group, Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abomohra A, Hanelt D. Recent Advances in Micro-/Nanoplastic (MNPs) Removal by Microalgae and Possible Integrated Routes of Energy Recovery. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122400. [PMID: 36557653 PMCID: PMC9788109 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Reliance on plastic has resulted in the widespread occurrence of micro-/nanoplastics (MNPs) in aquatic ecosystems, threatening the food web and whole ecosystem functions. There is a tight interaction between MNPs and microalgae, as dominant living organisms and fundamental constituents at the base of the aquatic food web. Therefore, it is crucial to better understand the mechanisms underlying the interactions between plastic particles and microalgae, as well as the role of microalgae in removing MNPs from aquatic ecosystems. In addition, finding a suitable route for further utilization of MNP-contaminated algal biomass is of great importance. The present review article provides an interdisciplinary approach to elucidate microalgae-MNP interactions and subsequent impacts on microalgal physiology. The degradation of plastic in the environment and differences between micro- and nanoplastics are discussed. The possible toxic effects of MNPs on microalgal growth, photosynthetic activity, and morphology, due to physical or chemical interactions, are evaluated. In addition, the potential role of MNPs in microalgae cultivation and/or harvesting, together with further safe routes for biomass utilization in biofuel production, are suggested. Overall, the current article represents a state-of-the-art overview of MNP generation and the consequences of their accumulation in the environment, providing new insights into microalgae integrated routes of plastic removal and bioenergy production.
Collapse
|