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Ali SS, Elsamahy T, Al-Tohamy R, Sun J. A critical review of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems: Degradation mechanisms and removing strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ECOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 21:100427. [PMID: 38765892 PMCID: PMC11099331 DOI: 10.1016/j.ese.2024.100427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Plastic waste discarded into aquatic environments gradually degrades into smaller fragments, known as microplastics (MPs), which range in size from 0.05 to 5 mm. The ubiquity of MPs poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems and, by extension, human health, as these particles are ingested by various marine organisms including zooplankton, crustaceans, and fish, eventually entering the human food chain. This contamination threatens the entire ecological balance, encompassing food safety and the health of aquatic systems. Consequently, developing effective MP removal technologies has emerged as a critical area of research. Here, we summarize the mechanisms and recently reported strategies for removing MPs from aquatic ecosystems. Strategies combining physical and chemical pretreatments with microbial degradation have shown promise in decomposing MPs. Microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, algae, and specific enzymes are being leveraged in MP remediation efforts. Recent advancements have focused on innovative methods such as membrane bioreactors, synthetic biology, organosilane-based techniques, biofilm-mediated remediation, and nanomaterial-enabled strategies, with nano-enabled technologies demonstrating substantial potential to enhance MP removal efficiency. This review aims to stimulate further innovation in effective MP removal methods, promoting environmental and social well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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
| | - Tamer Elsamahy
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Rania Al-Tohamy
- 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
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2
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Ferreira-Filipe DA, Oliveira L, Paço A, Fernandes AJS, Costa FM, Duarte AC, Rocha-Santos T, Patrício Silva AL. Biodegradation of e-waste microplastics by Penicillium brevicompactum. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 935:173334. [PMID: 38763191 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173334] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Electronic and electric waste (e-waste) management strategies often fall short in dealing with the plastic constituents of printed circuit boards (PCB). Some plastic materials from PCB, such as epoxy resins, may release contaminants, but neither potential environmental impact has been assessed nor mitigation strategies have been put forward. This study assessed the biodegradation of microplastics (1-2 mm in size) from PCB by the fungus Penicillium brevicompactum over 28 days, thus contributing to the discussion of mitigation strategies for decreasing the environmental impact of such plastics in the environment. The capacity of P. brevicompactum to induce microplastic fragmentation and degradation has been determined by the increased the number of smaller-sized particles and microplastic mass reduction (up to 75 % within 14 days), respectively. The occurrence of chain scission and oxidation of microplastics exposed to P. brevicompactum when compared with the control conditions (which occurred only after 28 days of exposure) can be observed. Furthermore, Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy performed in dried biomass put in evidence an increase in the absorption intensities in regions that could be attributed to functional groups associated with carbohydrates. The results underline the potential role of the genus Penicillium, particularly P. brevicompactum, in the biodegradation of microplastics from PCB, thus providing the basis for further exploration of its potential for e-waste bioremediation and research on the underlying mechanisms for sustainable approaches to mitigate e-waste pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo A Ferreira-Filipe
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal.
| | | | - Ana Paço
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | | | | | - Armando C Duarte
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Teresa Rocha-Santos
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana L Patrício Silva
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) & Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Portugal
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3
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Mubayi V, Ahern CB, Calusinska M, O'Malley MA. Toward a Circular Bioeconomy: Designing Microbes and Polymers for Biodegradation. ACS Synth Biol 2024. [PMID: 38918080 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Polymer production is rapidly increasing, but there are no large-scale technologies available to effectively mitigate the massive accumulation of these recalcitrant materials. One potential solution is the development of a carbon-neutral polymer life cycle, where microorganisms convert plant biomass to chemicals, which are used to synthesize biodegradable materials that ultimately contribute to the growth of new plants. Realizing a circular carbon life cycle requires the integration of knowledge across microbiology, bioengineering, materials science, and organic chemistry, which itself has hindered large-scale industrial advances. This review addresses the biodegradation status of common synthetic polymers, identifying novel microbes and enzymes capable of metabolizing these recalcitrant materials and engineering approaches to enhance their biodegradation pathways. Design considerations for the next generation of biodegradable polymers are also reviewed, and finally, opportunities to apply findings from lignocellulosic biodegradation to the design and biodegradation of similarly recalcitrant synthetic polymers are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Mubayi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Colleen B Ahern
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Magdalena Calusinska
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, L-4422 Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Michelle A O'Malley
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI), Emeryville, California 94608, United States
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4
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Boctor J, Pandey G, Xu W, Murphy DV, Hoyle FC. Nature's Plastic Predators: A Comprehensive and Bibliometric Review of Plastivore Insects. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1671. [PMID: 38932021 PMCID: PMC11207432 DOI: 10.3390/polym16121671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Unprecedented plastic production has resulted in over six billion tons of harmful waste. Certain insect taxa emerge as potential agents of plastic biodegradation. Through a comprehensive manual and bibliometric literature analysis, this review analyses and consolidates the growing literature related to insect-mediated plastic breakdown. Over 23 insect species, representing Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and 4 other orders, have been identified for their capacity to consume plastic polymers. Natural and synthetic polymers exhibit high-level similarities in molecular structure and properties. Thus, in conjunction with comparative genomics studies, we link plastic-degrading enzymatic capabilities observed in certain insects to the exaptation of endogenous enzymes originally evolved for digesting lignin, cellulose, beeswax, keratin and chitin from their native dietary substrates. Further clarification is necessary to distinguish mineralisation from physicochemical fragmentation and to differentiate microbiome-mediated degradation from direct enzymatic reactions by insects. A bibliometric analysis of the exponentially growing body of literature showed that leading research is emerging from China and the USA. Analogies between natural and synthetic polymer's degradation pathways will inform engineering robust enzymes for practical plastic bioremediation applications. By aggregating, analysing, and interpreting published insights, this review consolidates our mechanistic understanding of insects as a potential natural solution to the escalating plastic waste crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Boctor
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; (W.X.); (D.V.M.); (F.C.H.)
| | - Gunjan Pandey
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Environment, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia;
| | - Wei Xu
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; (W.X.); (D.V.M.); (F.C.H.)
| | - Daniel V. Murphy
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; (W.X.); (D.V.M.); (F.C.H.)
- SoilsWest, Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Frances C. Hoyle
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia; (W.X.); (D.V.M.); (F.C.H.)
- SoilsWest, Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
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5
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Young R, Ahmed KA, Court L, Castro-Vargas C, Marcora A, Boctor J, Paull C, Wijffels G, Rane R, Edwards O, Walsh T, Pandey G. Improved reference quality genome sequence of the plastic-degrading greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2024; 14:jkae070. [PMID: 38564250 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkae070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is a pest of honeybees in many countries because its larvae feed on beeswax. However, G. mellonella larvae can also eat various plastics, including polyethylene, polystyrene, and polypropylene, and therefore, the species is garnering increasing interest as a tool for plastic biodegradation research. This paper presents an improved genome (99.3% completed lepidoptera_odb10 BUSCO; genome mode) for G. mellonella. This 472 Mb genome is in 221 contigs with an N50 of 6.4 Mb and contains 13,604 protein-coding genes. Genes that code for known and putative polyethylene-degrading enzymes and their similarity to proteins found in other Lepidoptera are highlighted. An analysis of secretory proteins more likely to be involved in the plastic catabolic process has also been carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leon Court
- CSIRO Environment, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
| | | | - Anna Marcora
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Joseph Boctor
- Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Cate Paull
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Gene Wijffels
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, St Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia
| | - Rahul Rane
- CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | | | - Tom Walsh
- CSIRO Environment, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
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Khatua S, Simal-Gandara J, Acharya K. Myco-remediation of plastic pollution: current knowledge and future prospects. Biodegradation 2024; 35:249-279. [PMID: 37665521 PMCID: PMC10950981 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-023-10053-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
To date, enumerable fungi have been reported to participate in the biodegradation of several notorious plastic materials following their isolation from soil of plastic-dumping sites, marine water, waste of mulch films, landfills, plant parts and gut of wax moth. The general mechanism begins with formation of hydrophobin and biofilm proceding to secretion of specific plastic degarding enzymes (peroxidase, hydrolase, protease and urease), penetration of three dimensional substrates and mineralization of plastic polymers into harmless products. As a result, several synthetic polymers including polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane and/or bio-degradable plastics have been validated to deteriorate within months through the action of a wide variety of fungal strains predominantly Ascomycota (Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium spp.). Understanding the potential and mode of operation of these organisms is thus of prime importance inspiring us to furnish an up to date view on all the presently known fungal strains claimed to mitigate the plastic waste problem. Future research henceforth needs to be directed towards metagenomic approach to distinguish polymer degrading microbial diversity followed by bio-augmentation to build fascinating future of waste disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somanjana Khatua
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, 211002, India
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, 32004, Ourense, Spain.
| | - Krishnendu Acharya
- Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Centre of Advanced Study, University of Calcutta, 35, Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700019, India.
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7
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Piyathilake U, Lin C, Bolan N, Bundschuh J, Rinklebe J, Herath I. Exploring the hidden environmental pollution of microplastics derived from bioplastics: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141773. [PMID: 38548076 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141773] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Bioplastics might be an ecofriendly alternative to traditional plastics. However, recent studies have emphasized that even bioplastics can end up becoming micro- and nano-plastics due to their degradation under ambient environmental conditions. Hence, there is an urgent need to assess the hidden environmental pollution caused by bioplastics. However, little is known about the evolutionary trends of bibliographic data, degradation pathways, formation, and toxicity of micro- and nano-scaled bioplastics originating from biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and starch-based plastics. Therefore, the prime objective of the current review was to investigate evolutionary trends and the latest advancements in the field of micro-bioplastic pollution. Additionally, it aims to confront the limitations of existing research on microplastic pollution derived from the degradation of bioplastic wastes, and to understand what is needed in future research. The literature survey revealed that research focusing on micro- and nano-bioplastics has begun since 2012. This review identifies novel insights into microbioplastics formation through diverse degradation pathways, including photo-oxidation, ozone-induced degradation, mechanochemical degradation, biodegradation, thermal, and catalytic degradation. Critical research gaps are identified, including defining optimal environmental conditions for complete degradation of diverse bioplastics, exploring micro- and nano-bioplastics formation in natural environments, investigating the global occurrence and distribution of these particles in diverse ecosystems, assessing toxic substances released during bioplastics degradation, and bridging the disparity between laboratory studies and real-world applications. By identifying new trends and knowledge gaps, this study lays the groundwork for future investigations and sustainable solutions in the realm of sustainable management of bioplastic wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udara Piyathilake
- Environmental Science Division, National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS), Kandy, 2000, Sri Lanka
| | - Chuxia Lin
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Nanthi Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Jochen Bundschuh
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, The University of Southern Queensland, West Street, 4350, QLD, Australia
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Indika Herath
- Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3216, Australia.
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Zahid H, Afzal N, Arif MM, Zahid M, Nawab S, Qasim MM, Alvi FN, Nazir S, Perveen I, Abbas N, Saleem Y, Mazhar S, Nawaz S, Faridi TA, Awan HMA, Syed Q, Abidi SHI. Microorganism-mediated biodegradation for effective management and/or removal of micro-plastics from the environment: a comprehensive review. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:198. [PMID: 38558101 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03904-w] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Micro- plastics (MPs) pose significant global threats, requiring an environment-friendly mode of decomposition. Microbial-mediated biodegradation and biodeterioration of micro-plastics (MPs) have been widely known for their cost-effectiveness, and environment-friendly techniques for removing MPs. MPs resistance to various biocidal microbes has also been reported by various studies. The biocidal resistance degree of biodegradability and/or microbiological susceptibility of MPs can be determined by defacement, structural deformation, erosion, degree of plasticizer degradation, metabolization, and/or solubilization of MPs. The degradation of microplastics involves microbial organisms like bacteria, mold, yeast, algae, and associated enzymes. Analytical and microbiological techniques monitor microplastic biodegradation, but no microbial organism can eliminate microplastics. MPs can pose environmental risks to aquatic and human life. Micro-plastic biodegradation involves fragmentation, assimilation, and mineralization, influenced by abiotic and biotic factors. Environmental factors and pre-treatment agents can naturally degrade large polymers or induce bio-fragmentation, which may impact their efficiency. A clear understanding of MPs pollution and the microbial degradation process is crucial for mitigating its effects. The study aimed to identify deteriogenic microorganism species that contribute to the biodegradation of micro-plastics (MPs). This knowledge is crucial for designing novel biodeterioration and biodegradation formulations, both lab-scale and industrial, that exhibit MPs-cidal actions, potentially predicting MPs-free aquatic and atmospheric environments. The study emphasizes the urgent need for global cooperation, research advancements, and public involvement to reduce micro-plastic contamination through policy proposals and improved waste management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Zahid
- Department of Public Health, University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Nimra Afzal
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Maaz Arif
- Department of Medical Education, University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mahnoor Zahid
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Pakistan
| | - Samia Nawab
- Government Graduate College (W), Township, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | | | | | - Ishrat Perveen
- Food and Biotechnology Research Centre, Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Naaz Abbas
- Minhaj University Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Yasar Saleem
- Food and Biotechnology Research Centre, Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sania Mazhar
- Food and Biotechnology Research Centre, Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shaista Nawaz
- Food and Biotechnology Research Centre, Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Quratulain Syed
- Food and Biotechnology Research Centre, Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Syed Hussain Imam Abidi
- Food and Biotechnology Research Centre, Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan
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He L, Yang SS, Ding J, Chen CX, Yang F, He ZL, Pang JW, Peng BY, Zhang Y, Xing DF, Ren NQ, Wu WM. Biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate by Tenebrio molitor: Insights for polymer chain size, gut metabolome and host genes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133446. [PMID: 38219578 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET or polyester) is a commonly used plastic and also contributes to the majority of plastic wastes. Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae) are capable of biodegrading major plastic polymers but their degrading ability for PET has not been characterized based on polymer chain size molecular size, gut microbiome, metabolome and transcriptome. We verified biodegradation of commercial PET by T. molitor larvae in a previous report. Here, we reported that biodegradation of commercial PET (Mw 29.43 kDa) was further confirmed by using the δ13C signature as an indication of bioreaction, which was increased from - 27.50‰ to - 26.05‰. Under antibiotic suppression of gut microbes, the PET was still depolymerized, indicating that the host digestive enzymes could degrade PET independently. Biodegradation of high purity PET with low, medium, and high molecular weights (MW), i.e., Mw values of 1.10, 27.10, and 63.50 kDa with crystallinity 53.66%, 33.43%, and 4.25%, respectively, showed a mass reduction of > 95%, 86%, and 74% via broad depolymerization. Microbiome analyses indicated that PET diets shifted gut microbiota to three distinct structures, depending on the low, medium, and high MW. Metagenome sequencing, transcriptomic, and metabolic analyses indicated symbiotic biodegradation of PET by the host and gut microbiota. After PET was fed, the host's genes encoding degradation enzymes were upregulated, including genes encoding oxidizing, hydrolyzing, and non-specific CYP450 enzymes. Gut bacterial genes for biodegrading intermediates and nitrogen fixation also upregulated. The multiple-functional metabolic pathways for PET biodegradation ensured rapid biodegradation resulting in a half-life of PET less than 4 h with less negative impact by PET MW and crystallinity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Jie Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Cheng-Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Fan Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Zhi-Li He
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519080, China
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, Beijing 100089, China
| | - Bo-Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yalei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - De-Feng Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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10
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Shah MZ, Quraishi M, Sreejith A, Pandit S, Roy A, Khandaker MU. Sustainable degradation of synthetic plastics: A solution to rising environmental concerns. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141451. [PMID: 38368957 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141451] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Plastics have a significant role in various sectors of the global economy since they are widely utilized in agriculture, architecture, and construction, as well as health and consumer goods. They play a crucial role in several industries as they are utilized in the production of diverse things such as defense materials, sanitary wares, tiles, plastic bottles, artificial leather, and various other household goods. Plastics are utilized in the packaging of food items, medications, detergents, and cosmetics. The overconsumption of plastics presents a significant peril to both the ecosystem and human existence on Earth. The accumulation of plastics on land and in the sea has sparked interest in finding ways to breakdown these polymers. It is necessary to employ suitable biodegradable techniques to decrease the accumulation of plastics in the environment. To address the environmental issues related to plastics, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the interaction between microorganisms and polymers. A wide range of creatures, particularly microbes, have developed techniques to survive and break down plastics. This review specifically examines the categorization of plastics based on their thermal and biodegradable properties, as well as the many types of degradation and biodegradation. It also discusses the various types of degradable plastics, the characterization of biodegradation, and the factors that influence the process of biodegradation. The plastic breakdown and bioremediation capabilities of these microbes make them ideal for green chemistry applications aimed at removing hazardous polymers from the ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masirah Zahid Shah
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 410206, India
| | - Marzuqa Quraishi
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 410206, India
| | - Anushree Sreejith
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 410206, India
| | - Soumya Pandit
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, 201306, India.
| | - Arpita Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, Sharda School of Engineering & Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India.
| | - Mayeen Uddin Khandaker
- Applied Physics and Radiation Technologies Group, CCDCU, School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia; Faculty of Graduate Studies, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
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11
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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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12
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Naidu G, Nagar N, Poluri KM. Mechanistic Insights into Cellular and Molecular Basis of Protein-Nanoplastic Interactions. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2305094. [PMID: 37786309 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202305094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste is ubiquitously present across the world, and its nano/sub-micron analogues (plastic nanoparticles, PNPs), raise severe environmental concerns affecting organisms' health. Considering the direct and indirect toxic implications of PNPs, their biological impacts are actively being studied; lately, with special emphasis on cellular and molecular mechanistic intricacies. Combinatorial OMICS studies identified proteins as major regulators of PNP mediated cellular toxicity via activation of oxidative enzymes and generation of ROS. Alteration of protein function by PNPs results in DNA damage, organellar dysfunction, and autophagy, thus resulting in inflammation/cell death. The molecular mechanistic basis of these cellular toxic endeavors is fine-tuned at the level of structural alterations in proteins of physiological relevance. Detailed biophysical studies on such protein-PNP interactions evidenced prominent modifications in their structural architecture and conformational energy landscape. Another essential aspect of the protein-PNP interactions includes bioenzymatic plastic degradation perspective, as the interactive units of plastics are essentially nano-sized. Combining all these attributes of protein-PNP interactions, the current review comprehensively documented the contemporary understanding of the concerned interactions in the light of cellular, molecular, kinetic/thermodynamic details. Additionally, the applicatory, economical facet of these interactions, PNP biogeochemical cycle and enzymatic advances pertaining to plastic degradation has also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goutami Naidu
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Nupur Nagar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Krishna Mohan Poluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
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13
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Cox RJ. Engineered and total biosynthesis of fungal specialized metabolites. Nat Rev Chem 2024; 8:61-78. [PMID: 38172201 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-023-00564-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Filamentous fungi produce a very wide range of complex and often bioactive metabolites, demonstrating their inherent ability as hosts of complex biosynthetic pathways. Recent advances in molecular sciences related to fungi have afforded the development of new tools that allow the rational total biosynthesis of highly complex specialized metabolites in a single process. Increasingly, these pathways can also be engineered to produce new metabolites. Engineering can be at the level of gene deletion, gene addition, formation of mixed pathways, engineering of scaffold synthases and engineering of tailoring enzymes. Combination of these approaches with hosts that can metabolize low-value waste streams opens the prospect of one-step syntheses from garbage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell J Cox
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and BMWZ, Leibniz University of Hannover, Hannover, Germany.
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14
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L E, Wilfred N, S K, Halder G, Haldar D, Patel AK, Singhania RR, Pandey A. Biodegradation of microplastics: Advancement in the strategic approaches towards prevention of its accumulation and harmful effects. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 346:140661. [PMID: 37951399 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140661] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles in a size ranging from 1 mm to 5 mm in diameter, and are formed by the breakdown of plastics from different sources. They are emerging environmental pollutants, and pose a great threat to living organisms. Improper disposal, inadequate recycling, and excessive use of plastic led to the accumulation of MP in the environment. The degradation of MP can be done either biotically or abiotically. In view of that, this article discusses the molecular mechanisms that involve bacteria, fungi, and enzymes to degrade the MP polymers as the primary objective. As per as abiotic degradation is concerned, two different modes of MP degradation were discussed in order to justify the effectiveness of biotic degradation. Finally, this review is concluded with the challenges and future perspectives of MP biodegradation based on the existing research gaps. The main objective of this article is to provide the readers with clear insight, and ideas about the recent advancements in MP biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emisha L
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, 641114, India
| | - Nishitha Wilfred
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, 641114, India
| | - Kavitha S
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, 641114, India
| | - Gopinath Halder
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, 713209, West Bengal, India
| | - Dibyajyoti Haldar
- Division of Biotechnology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, 641114, India.
| | - Anil Kumar Patel
- Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan; Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226029, India
| | - Reeta Rani Singhania
- Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
| | - Ashok Pandey
- Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Lucknow, 226029, India; Centre for Innovation and Translational Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, 226 001, India; Kyung Hee University, Kyung Hee Dae Ro 26, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, 248 007, Uttarakhand, India
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15
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Kudzin MH, Piwowarska D, Festinger N, Chruściel JJ. Risks Associated with the Presence of Polyvinyl Chloride in the Environment and Methods for Its Disposal and Utilization. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 17:173. [PMID: 38204025 PMCID: PMC10779931 DOI: 10.3390/ma17010173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastics have recently become an indispensable part of everyone's daily life due to their versatility, durability, light weight, and low production costs. The increasing production and use of plastics poses great environmental problems due to their incomplete utilization, a very long period of biodegradation, and a negative impact on living organisms. Decomposing plastics lead to the formation of microplastics, which accumulate in the environment and living organisms, becoming part of the food chain. The contamination of soils and water with poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) seriously threatens ecosystems around the world. Their durability and low weight make microplastic particles easily transported through water or air, ending up in the soil. Thus, the problem of microplastic pollution affects the entire ecosystem. Since microplastics are commonly found in both drinking and bottled water, humans are also exposed to their harmful effects. Because of existing risks associated with the PVC microplastic contamination of the ecosystem, intensive research is underway to develop methods to clean and remove it from the environment. The pollution of the environment with plastic, and especially microplastic, results in the reduction of both water and soil resources used for agricultural and utility purposes. This review provides an overview of PVC's environmental impact and its disposal options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin H. Kudzin
- Łukasiewicz Research Network—Lodz Institute of Technology, 19/27 Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie Str., 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (M.H.K.); (D.P.); (N.F.)
- Circular Economy Center (BCG), Environmental Protection Engineering Research Group, Brzezińska 5/15, 92-103 Łódź, Poland
| | - Dominika Piwowarska
- Łukasiewicz Research Network—Lodz Institute of Technology, 19/27 Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie Str., 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (M.H.K.); (D.P.); (N.F.)
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Lodz, 21/23 Jana Matejki Str., 90-237 Łódź, Poland
- UNESCO Chair on Ecohydrology and Applied Ecology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha Str., 90-232 Łódź, Poland
- European Regional Centre for Ecohydrology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Tylna Str., 90-364 Łódź, Poland
| | - Natalia Festinger
- Łukasiewicz Research Network—Lodz Institute of Technology, 19/27 Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie Str., 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (M.H.K.); (D.P.); (N.F.)
- Circular Economy Center (BCG), Environmental Protection Engineering Research Group, Brzezińska 5/15, 92-103 Łódź, Poland
| | - Jerzy J. Chruściel
- Łukasiewicz Research Network—Lodz Institute of Technology, 19/27 Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie Str., 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (M.H.K.); (D.P.); (N.F.)
- Circular Economy Center (BCG), Environmental Protection Engineering Research Group, Brzezińska 5/15, 92-103 Łódź, Poland
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16
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Cognigni F, Temporiti MEE, Nicola L, Gueninchault N, Tosi S, Rossi M. Exploring the infiltrative and degradative ability of Fusarium oxysporum on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using correlative microscopy and deep learning. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22987. [PMID: 38151495 PMCID: PMC10752890 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50199-w] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Managing the worldwide steady increase in the production of plastic while mitigating the Earth's global pollution is one of the greatest challenges nowadays. Fungi are often involved in biodegradation processes thanks to their ability to penetrate into substrates and release powerful catabolic exoenzymes. However, studying the interaction between fungi and plastic substrates is challenging due to the deep hyphal penetration, which hinders visualisation and evaluation of fungal activity. In this study, a multiscale and multimodal correlative microscopy workflow was employed to investigate the infiltrative and degradative ability of Fusarium oxysporum fungal strain on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fragments. The use of non-destructive high-resolution 3D X-ray microscopy (XRM) coupled with a state-of-art Deep Learning (DL) reconstruction algorithm allowed optimal visualisation of the distribution of the fungus on the PET fragment. The fungus preferentially developed on the edges and corners of the fragment, where it was able to penetrate into the material through fractures. Additional analyses with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) allowed the identification of the different phases detected by XRM. The correlative microscopy approach unlocked a more comprehensive understanding of the fungus-plastic interaction, including elemental information and polymeric composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavio Cognigni
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences for Engineering (SBAI), University of Rome LA SAPIENZA, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Elisabetta Eleonora Temporiti
- Laboratory of Mycology, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Centre, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Lidia Nicola
- Laboratory of Mycology, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | | | - Solveig Tosi
- Laboratory of Mycology, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Centre, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Rossi
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences for Engineering (SBAI), University of Rome LA SAPIENZA, 00185, Rome, Italy
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17
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El-Dash HA, Yousef NE, Aboelazm AA, Awan ZA, Yahya G, El-Ganiny AM. Optimizing Eco-Friendly Degradation of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Plastic Using Environmental Strains of Malassezia Species and Aspergillus fumigatus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15452. [PMID: 37895132 PMCID: PMC10607177 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015452] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, huge amounts of plastics are being introduced into the ecosystem, causing environmental pollution. Generally, plastic biodegradation in the ecosystem takes hundreds of years. Hence, the isolation of plastic-biodegrading microorganisms and finding optimum conditions for their action is crucial. The aim of the current study is to isolate plastic-biodegrading fungi and explore optimum conditions for their action. Soil samples were gathered from landfill sites; 18 isolates were able to grow on SDA. Only 10 isolates were able to the degrade polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymer. Four isolates displayed promising depolymerase activity. Molecular identification revealed that three isolates belong to genus Aspergillus, and one isolate was Malassezia sp. Three isolates showed superior PVC-biodegrading activity (Aspergillus-2, Aspergillus-3 and Malassezia) using weight reduction analysis and SEM. Two Aspergillus strains and Malassezia showed optimum growth at 40 °C, while the last strain grew better at 30 °C. Two Aspergillus isolates grew better at pH 8-9, and the other two isolates grow better at pH 4. Maximal depolymerase activity was monitored at 50 °C, and at slightly acidic pH in most isolates, FeCl3 significantly enhanced depolymerase activity in two Aspergillus isolates. In conclusion, the isolated fungi have promising potential to degrade PVC and can contribute to the reduction of environmental pollution in eco-friendly way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba A. El-Dash
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (H.A.E.-D.); (N.E.Y.); (G.Y.)
| | - Nehal E. Yousef
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (H.A.E.-D.); (N.E.Y.); (G.Y.)
| | - Abeer A. Aboelazm
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha 13518, Egypt;
| | - Zuhier A. Awan
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Galal Yahya
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (H.A.E.-D.); (N.E.Y.); (G.Y.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology, Technical University of Kaiserslautern, Paul-Ehrlich Str. 24, 67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Amira M. El-Ganiny
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (H.A.E.-D.); (N.E.Y.); (G.Y.)
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18
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Jin J, Arciszewski J, Auclair K, Jia Z. Enzymatic polyethylene biorecycling: Confronting challenges and shaping the future. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 460:132449. [PMID: 37690195 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) is a widely used plastic known for its resistance to biodegradation, posing a significant environmental challenge. Recent advances have shed light on microorganisms and insects capable of breaking down PE and identified potential PE-degrading enzymes (PEases), hinting at the possibility of PE biorecycling. Research on enzymatic PE degradation is still in its early stages, especially compared to the progress made with polyethylene terephthalate (PET). While PET hydrolases have been extensively studied and engineered for improved performance, even the products of PEases remain mostly undefined. This Perspective analyzes the current state of enzymatic PE degradation research, highlighting obstacles in the search for bona fide PEases and suggesting areas for future exploration. A critical challenge impeding progress in this field stems from the inert nature of the C-C and C-H bonds of PE. Furthermore, breaking down PE into small molecules using only one monofunctional enzyme is theoretically impossible. Overcoming these obstacles requires identifying enzymatic pathways, which can be facilitated using emerging technologies like omics, structure-based design, and computer-assisted engineering of enzymes. Understanding the mechanisms underlying PE enzymatic biodegradation is crucial for research progress and for identifying potential solutions to the global plastic pollution crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Jin
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON KL7 3N6, Canada
| | - Jane Arciszewski
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. West, Montréal QC H3A 0B8, Canada
| | - Karine Auclair
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. West, Montréal QC H3A 0B8, Canada
| | - Zongchao Jia
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON KL7 3N6, Canada.
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19
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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.
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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
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20
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Siddiqui SA, Sundarsingh A, Bahmid NA, Nirmal N, Denayer JFM, Karimi K. A critical review on biodegradable food packaging for meat: Materials, sustainability, regulations, and perspectives in the EU. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2023; 22:4147-4185. [PMID: 37350102 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13202] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
The development of biodegradable packaging is a challenge, as conventional plastics have many advantages in terms of high flexibility, transparency, low cost, strong mechanical characteristics, and high resistance to heat compared with most biodegradable plastics. The quality of biodegradable materials and the research needed for their improvement for meat packaging were critically evaluated in this study. In terms of sustainability, biodegradable packagings are more sustainable than conventional plastics; however, most of them contain unsustainable chemical additives. Cellulose showed a high potential for meat preservation due to high moisture control. Polyhydroxyalkanoates and polylactic acid (PLA) are renewable materials that have been recently introduced to the market, but their application in meat products is still limited. To be classified as an edible film, the mechanical properties and acceptable control over gas and moisture exchange need to be improved. PLA and cellulose-based films possess the advantage of protection against oxygen and water permeation; however, the addition of functional substances plays an important role in their effects on the foods. Furthermore, the use of packaging materials is increasing due to consumer demand for natural high-quality food packaging that serves functions such as extended shelf-life and contamination protection. To support the importance moving toward biodegradable packaging for meat, this review presented novel perspectives regarding ecological impacts, commercial status, and consumer perspectives. Those aspects are then evaluated with the specific consideration of regulations and perspective in the European Union (EU) for employing renewable and ecological meat packaging materials. This review also helps to highlight the situation regarding biodegradable food packaging for meat in the EU specifically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- Technical University of Munich, Department for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Straubing, Germany
- German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), Quakenbrück, Germany
| | | | - Nur Alim Bahmid
- Research Center for Food Technology and Processing, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Nilesh Nirmal
- Institute of Nutrition, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Joeri F M Denayer
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Keikhosro Karimi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
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21
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Sharma S, Bhardwaj A, Thakur M, Saini A. Understanding microplastic pollution of marine ecosystem: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-28314-1. [PMID: 37442935 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28314-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are emerging as prominent pollutants across the globe. Oceans are becoming major sinks for these pollutants, and their presence is widespread in coastal regions, oceanic surface waters, water column, and sediments. Studies have revealed that microplastics cause serious threats to the marine ecosystem as well as human beings. In the past few years, many research efforts have focused on studying different aspects relating to microplastic pollution of the oceans. This review summarizes sources, migration routes, and ill effects of marine microplastic pollution along with various conventional as well as advanced methods for microplastics analysis and control. However, various knowledge gaps in detection and analysis require attention in order to understand the sources and transport of microplastics, which is critical to deploying mitigation strategies at appropriate locations. Advanced removal methods and an integrated approach are necessary, including government policies and stringent regulations to control the release of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Aprajita Bhardwaj
- Department of Biotechnology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Monika Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Anita Saini
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Maharaja Agrasen University, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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22
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Okal EJ, Heng G, Magige EA, Khan S, Wu S, Ge Z, Zhang T, Mortimer PE, Xu J. Insights into the mechanisms involved in the fungal degradation of plastics. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 262:115202. [PMID: 37390726 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Fungi are considered among the most efficient microbial degraders of plastics, as they produce salient enzymes and can survive on recalcitrant compounds with limited nutrients. In recent years, studies have reported numerous species of fungi that can degrade different types of plastics, yet there remain many gaps in our understanding of the processes involved in biodegradation. In addition, many unknowns need to be resolved regarding the fungal enzymes responsible for plastic fragmentation and the regulatory mechanisms which fungi use to hydrolyse, assimilate and mineralize synthetic plastics. This review aims to detail the main methods used in plastic hydrolysis by fungi, key enzymatic and molecular mechanisms, chemical agents that enhance the enzymatic breakdown of plastics, and viable industrial applications. Considering that polymers such as lignin, bioplastics, phenolics, and other petroleum-based compounds exhibit closely related characteristics in terms of hydrophobicity and structure, and are degraded by similar fungal enzymes as plastics, we have reasoned that genes that have been reported to regulate the biodegradation of these compounds or their homologs could equally be involved in the regulation of plastic degrading enzymes in fungi. Thus, this review highlights and provides insight into some of the most likely regulatory mechanisms by which fungi degrade plastics, target enzymes, genes, and transcription factors involved in the process, as well as key limitations to industrial upscaling of plastic biodegradation and biological approaches that can be employed to overcome these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyalira Jacob Okal
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Center for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Gui Heng
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Center for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China.
| | - Ephie A Magige
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Sehroon Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Science and Technology Bannu, 28100 Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Shixi Wu
- Science and Technology on Aerospace Chemical Power Laboratory, Hubei Institute of Aerospace Chemotechnology, Xiangyang 441003, Hubei, China
| | - Zhiqiang Ge
- Science and Technology on Aerospace Chemical Power Laboratory, Hubei Institute of Aerospace Chemotechnology, Xiangyang 441003, Hubei, China
| | - Tianfu Zhang
- Science and Technology on Aerospace Chemical Power Laboratory, Hubei Institute of Aerospace Chemotechnology, Xiangyang 441003, Hubei, China
| | - Peter E Mortimer
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Center for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China.
| | - Jianchu Xu
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Center for Mountain Futures, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, China.
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23
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Gui Z, Liu G, Liu X, Cai R, Liu R, Sun C. A Deep-Sea Bacterium Is Capable of Degrading Polyurethane. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0007323. [PMID: 36995243 PMCID: PMC10269918 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00073-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic wastes have been recognized as the most common and durable marine contaminants, which are not only found in the shallow water, but also on the sea floor. However, whether deep-sea microorganisms have evolved the capability of degrading plastic remains elusive. In this study, a deep-sea bacterium Bacillus velezensis GUIA was found to be capable of degrading waterborne polyurethane. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the supplement of waterborne polyurethane upregulated the expression of many genes related to spore germination, indicating that the presence of plastic had effects on the growth of strain GUIA. In addition, the supplement of waterborne polyurethane also evidently upregulated the expressions of many genes encoding lipase, protease, and oxidoreductase. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) results showed that potential enzymes responsible for plastic degradation in strain GUIA were identified as oxidoreductase, protease, and lipase, which was consistent with the transcriptomic analysis. In combination of in vitro expression and degradation assays as well as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, we demonstrated that the oxidoreductase Oxr-1 of strain GUIA was the key degradation enzyme toward waterborne polyurethane. Moreover, the oxidoreductase Oxr-1 was also shown to degrade the biodegradable polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) film indicating its wide application potential. IMPORTANCE The widespread and indiscriminate disposal of plastics inevitably leads to environmental pollution. The secondary pollution by current landfill and incineration methods causes serious damage to the atmosphere, land, and rivers. Therefore, microbial degradation is an ideal way to solve plastic pollution. Recently, the marine environment is becoming a hot spot to screen microorganisms possessing potential plastic degradation capabilities. In this study, a deep-sea Bacillus strain was shown to degrade both waterborne polyurethane and biodegradable PBAT film. The FAD-binding oxidoreductase Oxr-1 was demonstrated to be the key enzyme mediating plastic degradation. Our study not only provided a good candidate for developing bio-products toward plastic degradation but also paved a way to investigate the carbon cycle mediated by plastic degradation in deep-sea microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Gui
- Key Lab of Plant Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong Province, College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Guangchao Liu
- Key Lab of Plant Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong Province, College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Key Lab of Plant Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong Province, College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ruining Cai
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology & Center of Deep Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China
- Center of Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Rui Liu
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology & Center of Deep Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China
- Center of Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Chaomin Sun
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology & Center of Deep Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Laoshan Laboratory, Qingdao, China
- Center of Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China
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24
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Thakur B, Singh J, Singh J, Angmo D, Vig AP. Biodegradation of different types of microplastics: Molecular mechanism and degradation efficiency. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 877:162912. [PMID: 36933716 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are widely distributed and a major pollutant in our ecosystem. Microplastics (MPs) are very small size plastic (<5 mm) present in environment, which comes from industrial, agricultural and household wastes. Plastic particles are more durable due to the presence of plasticizers and chemicals or additives. These plastics pollutants are more resistant to degradation. Inadequate recycling and excessive use of plastics lead to a large amount of waste accumulating in the terrestrial ecosystem, causing a risk to humans and animals. Thus, there is an urgent need to control microplastic pollution by employing different microorganisms to overcome this hazardous issue for the environment. Biological degradation depends upon different aspects, including chemical structure, functional group, molecular weight, crystallinity and additives. Molecular mechanisms for degradation of MPs through various enzymes have not extremely studied. It is necessary to degrade the MPs and overcome this problem. This review approaches different molecular mechanisms to degrade different types of microplastics and summarize the degradation efficiency of different types of bacteria, algae and fungal strains. The present study also summarizes the potential of microorganisms to degrade different polymers and the role of different enzymes in degradation of microplastics. To the outstanding of our awareness, this is the first article devoted to the role of microorganisms with their degradation efficiency. Furthermore, it also summarizes the role of intracellular and extracellular enzymes in biological degradation mechanism of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babita Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Jaswinder Singh
- Department of Zoology, Khalsa College Amritsar, Punjab, India.
| | - Joginder Singh
- Department of Microbiology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Deachen Angmo
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Adarsh Pal Vig
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
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25
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Viel T, Manfra L, Zupo V, Libralato G, Cocca M, Costantini M. Biodegradation of Plastics Induced by Marine Organisms: Future Perspectives for Bioremediation Approaches. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2673. [PMID: 37376319 DOI: 10.3390/polym15122673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a distinctive element of the globalized world. In fact, since the 1970s the expansion and use of plastics, particularly in the consumer and commercial sectors, has given this material a permanent place in our lives. The increasing use of plastic products and the wrong management of end-of-life plastic products have contributed to increasing environmental pollution, with negative impacts on our ecosystems and the ecological functions of natural habitats. Nowadays, plastic pollution is pervasive in all environmental compartments. As aquatic environments are the dumping points for poorly managed plastics, biofouling and biodegradation have been proposed as promising approaches for plastic bioremediation. Known for the high stability of plastics in the marine environment, this represents a very important issue to preserve marine biodiversity. In this review, we have summarized the main cases reported in the literature on the degradation of plastics by bacteria, fungi, and microalgae and the degradation mechanisms involved, to highlight the potential of bioremediation approaches to reduce macro and microplastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Viel
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegri, 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Loredana Manfra
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Vitaliano Brancati 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Zupo
- Stazione Zoologica, Ecosustainable Biotechnology Department, Ischia Marine Centre, Via Buonocore 42, 80077 Ischia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Libralato
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Mariacristina Cocca
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegri, 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Maria Costantini
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
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26
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Panaitescu DM, Frone AN, Nicolae CA, Gabor AR, Miu DM, Soare MG, Vasile BS, Lupescu I. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) nanocomposites modified with even and odd chain length polyhydroxyalkanoates. Int J Biol Macromol 2023:125324. [PMID: 37307975 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125324] [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: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) was blended with medium-chain-length PHAs (mcl-PHAs) for improving its flexibility while nanocellulose (NC) was added as a reinforcing agent. Even and odd-chain-length PHAs, having as main component poly(3-hydroxyoctanoate) (PHO) or poly(3-hydroxynonanoate) (PHN) were synthesized and served as PHB modifiers. The effects of PHO and PHN on the morphology, thermal, mechanical and biodegradation behaviors of PHB were different, especially in the presence of NC. The addition of mcl-PHAs decreased the storage modulus (E') of PHB blends by about 40 %. The further addition of NC mitigated this decrease bringing the E' of PHB/PHO/NC close to that of PHB and having a minor effect on the E' of PHB/PHN/NC. The biodegradability of PHB/PHN/NC was higher than that of PHB/PHO/NC, the latter's being close to that of neat PHB after soil burial for four months. The results showed a complex effect of NC, which enhanced the interaction between PHB and mcl-PHAs and decreased the size of PHO/PHN inclusions (1.9 ± 0.8/2.6 ± 0.9 μm) while increasing the accessibility of water and microorganisms during soil burial. The blown film extrusion test showed the ability of mcl-PHA and NC modified PHB to stretch forming uniform tube and supports the application of these biomaterials in the packaging sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Mihaela Panaitescu
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry - ICECHIM, 202 Splaiul Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Adriana Nicoleta Frone
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry - ICECHIM, 202 Splaiul Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Cristian-Andi Nicolae
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry - ICECHIM, 202 Splaiul Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Augusta Raluca Gabor
- National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry - ICECHIM, 202 Splaiul Independentei, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dana Maria Miu
- National Institute for Chemical Pharmaceutical Research and Development, 112 Calea Vitan, 031299 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana-Gratiela Soare
- National Institute for Chemical Pharmaceutical Research and Development, 112 Calea Vitan, 031299 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Stefan Vasile
- National Research Centre for Micro and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Irina Lupescu
- National Institute for Chemical Pharmaceutical Research and Development, 112 Calea Vitan, 031299 Bucharest, Romania; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Spiru Haret University, 256 Bulevardul Basarabia, 030352 Bucharest, Romania
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27
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Kothawale SS, Kumar L, Singh SP. Role of organisms and their enzymes in the biodegradation of microplastics and nanoplastics: A review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023:116281. [PMID: 37276977 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) and Nanoplastic (NP) contamination have become a critical ecological concern due to their persistent presence in every aspect of the ecosystem and their potentially harmful effects. The current approaches to eradicate these wastes by burning up and dumping adversely impact the environment, while recycling has its own challenges. As a result, applying degradation techniques to eliminate these recalcitrant polymers has been a focus of scientific investigation in the recent past. Biological, photocatalytic, electrocatalytic, and, recently, nanotechnologies have been studied to degrade these polymers. Nevertheless, it is hard to degrade MPs and NPs in the environment, and these degradation techniques are comparatively inefficient and require further development. The recent research focuses on the potential use of microbes to degrade MPs and NPs as a sustainable solution. Therefore, considering the recent advancements in this important research field, this review highlights the utilization of organisms and enzymes for the biodegradation of the MPs and NPs with their probable degradation mechanisms. This review provides insight into various microbial entities and their enzymes for the biodegradation of MPs. In addition, owing to the lack of research on the biodegradation of NPs, the perspective of applying these processes to NPs degradation has also been looked at. Finally, a critical evaluation of the recent development and perspective for future research to improve the effective removal of MPs and NPs in the environment through biodegradation is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheetal S Kothawale
- Centre for Research in Nanotechnology & Science (CRNTS), Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076, India
| | - Lalit Kumar
- Department of Energy Science and Engineering Department (DESE), Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076, India
| | - Swatantra P Singh
- Centre for Research in Nanotechnology & Science (CRNTS), Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076, India; Environmental Science and Engineering Department (ESED), Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076, India; Interdisciplinary Program in Climate Studies, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076, India.
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28
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Niego AGT, Rapior S, Thongklang N, Raspé O, Hyde KD, Mortimer P. Reviewing the contributions of macrofungi to forest ecosystem processes and services. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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29
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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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30
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Meegoda JN, Hettiarachchi MC. A Path to a Reduction in Micro and Nanoplastics Pollution. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085555. [PMID: 37107837 PMCID: PMC10139116 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) are plastic particles less than 5 mm in size. There are two categories of MP: primary and secondary. Primary or microscopic-sized MP are intentionally produced material. Fragmentation of large plastic debris through physical, chemical, and oxidative processes creates secondary MP, the most abundant type in the environment. Microplastic pollution has become a global environmental problem due to their abundance, poor biodegradability, toxicological properties, and negative impact on aquatic and terrestrial organisms including humans. Plastic debris enters the aquatic environment via direct dumping or uncontrolled land-based sources. While plastic debris slowly degrades into MP, wastewater and stormwater outlets discharge a large amount of MP directly into water bodies. Additionally, stormwater carries MP from sources such as tire wear, artificial turf, fertilizers, and land-applied biosolids. To protect the environment and human health, the entry of MP into the environment must be reduced or eliminated. Source control is one of the best methods available. The existing and growing abundance of MP in the environment requires the use of multiple strategies to combat pollution. These strategies include reducing the usage, public outreach to eliminate littering, reevaluation and use of new wastewater treatment and sludge disposal methods, regulations on macro and MP sources, and a wide implementation of appropriate stormwater management practices such as filtration, bioretention, and wetlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay N. Meegoda
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-973-596-2464
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31
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Salinas J, Carpena V, Martínez-Gallardo MR, Segado M, Estrella-González MJ, Toribio AJ, Jurado MM, López-González JA, Suárez-Estrella F, López MJ. Development of plastic-degrading microbial consortia by induced selection in microcosms. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1143769. [PMID: 37113240 PMCID: PMC10126402 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1143769] [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: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The increase in the production of highly recalcitrant plastic materials, and their accumulation in ecosystems, generates the need to investigate new sustainable strategies to reduce this type of pollution. Based on recent works, the use of microbial consortia could contribute to improving plastic biodegradation performance. This work deals with the selection and characterization of plastic-degrading microbial consortia using a sequential and induced enrichment technique from artificially contaminated microcosms. The microcosm consisted of a soil sample in which LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene) was buried. Consortia were obtained from the initial sample by sequential enrichment in a culture medium with LLDPE-type plastic material (in film or powder format) as the sole carbon source. Enrichment cultures were incubated for 105 days with monthly transfer to fresh medium. The abundance and diversity of total bacteria and fungi were monitored. Like LLDPE, lignin is a very complex polymer, so its biodegradation is closely linked to that of some recalcitrant plastics. For this reason, counting of ligninolytic microorganisms from the different enrichments was also performed. Additionally, the consortium members were isolated, molecularly identified and enzymatically characterized. The results revealed a loss of microbial diversity at each culture transfer at the end of the induced selection process. The consortium selected from selective enrichment in cultures with LLDPE in powder form was more effective compared to the consortium selected in cultures with LLDPE in film form, resulting in a reduction of microplastic weight between 2.5 and 5.5%. Some members of the consortia showed a wide range of enzymatic activities related to the degradation of recalcitrant plastic polymers, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa REBP5 or Pseudomonas alloputida REBP7 strains standing out. The strains identified as Castellaniella denitrificans REBF6 and Debaryomyces hansenii RELF8 were also considered relevant members of the consortia although they showed more discrete enzymatic profiles. Other consortium members could collaborate in the prior degradation of additives accompanying the LLDPE polymer, facilitating the subsequent access of other real degraders of the plastic structure. Although preliminary, the microbial consortia selected in this work contribute to the current knowledge of the degradation of recalcitrant plastics of anthropogenic origin accumulated in natural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Francisca Suárez-Estrella
- Unit of Microbiology, Department of Biology and Geology, CITE II-B, Agrifood Campus of International Excellence ceiA3, CIAIMBITAL, University of Almeria, Almeria, Spain
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32
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Quintero-García OJ, Pérez-Soler H, Amezcua-Allieri MA. Enzymatic Treatments for Biosolids: An Outlook and Recent Trends. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4804. [PMID: 36981713 PMCID: PMC10049663 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064804] [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: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Wastewaters are nutrient-rich organic materials containing significant concentrations of different nutrients, dissolved and particulate matter, microorganisms, solids, heavy metals, and organic pollutants, including aromatic xenobiotics. This variety makes wastewater treatment a technological challenge. As a result of wastewater treatment, biosolids are generated. Biosolids, commonly called sewage sludge, result from treating and processing wastewater residuals. Increased biosolids, or activated sludge, from wastewater treatment is a major environmental and social problem. Therefore, sustainable and energy-efficient wastewater treatment systems must address the water crisis and environmental deterioration. Although research on wastewater has received increasing attention worldwide, the significance of biosolids treatments and valorization is still poorly understood in terms of obtaining value-added products. Hence, in this review, we established some leading technologies (physical, chemical, and biological) for biosolids pretreatment. Later, the research focuses on natural treatment by fungal enzymes to end with lignocellulosic materials and xenobiotic compounds (polyaromatic hydrocarbons) as a carbon source to obtain biobased chemicals. Finally, this review discussed some recent trends and promising renewable resources within the biorefinery approach for bio-waste conversion to value-added by-products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar J. Quintero-García
- Nanotechnology Division, CINVESTAV-IPN, Avenida Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, Mexico City 07360, Mexico
| | - Heilyn Pérez-Soler
- Nanotechnology Division, CINVESTAV-IPN, Avenida Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, Mexico City 07360, Mexico
| | - Myriam A. Amezcua-Allieri
- Biomass Conversion Division, Instituto Mexicano del Petróleo, Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 152, San Bartolo Atepehuacan, Mexico City 07730, Mexico
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33
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Ali S, Bukhari DA, Rehman A. Call for biotechnological approach to degrade plastic in the era of COVID-19 pandemic. Saudi J Biol Sci 2023; 30:103583. [PMID: 36748033 PMCID: PMC9893805 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2023.103583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global issue and has become a major concern since Coronavirus disease (COVID)-19. In developing nations, landfilling and illegal waste disposal are typical ways to dispose of COVID-19-infected material. These technologies worsen plastic pollution and other human and animal health problems. Plastic degrades in light and heat, generating hazardous primary and secondary micro-plastic. Certain bacteria can degrade artificial polymers using genes, enzymes, and metabolic pathways. Microorganisms including bacteria degrade petrochemical plastics slowly. High molecular weight, strong chemical bonds, and excessive hydrophobicity reduce plastic biodegradation. There is not enough study on genes, enzymes, and bacteria-plastic interactions. Synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and bioinformatics methods have been created to biodegrade synthetic polymers. This review will focus on how microorganisms' degrading capacity can be increased using recent biotechnological techniques.
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Key Words
- BHET, bis(2-hydroxyethyl
- Bacteria
- COVID-19
- COVID-19, Coronavirus disease-19
- FTIR, Fourier-transform infrared
- HDPE, High-density polyethene
- LDPE, Low-density polyethene
- MHET, Mono(2-hydroxyethyl
- MP, Microplastics
- Microorganisms
- NP, Nanoplastics
- PE, Polyethene
- PES, Polyethylene succinate
- PET, Polyethylene terephthalate
- PP, Polypropylene
- PPE, Personal protective equipment
- PS, Polystyrene
- PVC, Polyvinyl chloride
- Plastic degradation
- Plastic pollution
- TCA, Tricarboxylic acid
- TPA, Terephthalic acid
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakir Ali
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Dilara A. Bukhari
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Rehman
- Institute of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of the Punjab, New Campus, Lahore 54590, Pakistan,Correspondence author at: Institute of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, University of the Punjab, New Campus, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
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34
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Sharma H, Neelam DK. Understanding challenges associated with plastic and bacterial approach toward plastic degradation. J Basic Microbiol 2023; 63:292-307. [PMID: 36470670 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202200428] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Plastic is widely used in every sector due to its stability, durability, and low cost. The widespread use of plastic results in the compilation of plastic waste in the environment. The buildup of such a vast volume of plastic garbage has emerged as the primary cause of environmental pollution, including air, land, and water pollution. Plastics contain various harmful chemicals and toxic substances that can leak and adversely affect humans and other organisms. Managing this much plastic waste is a very challenging task; therefore, an appropriate technique is needed to address this problem. Various methods are used, such as chemical, physical, and biological, to degrade plastic waste. Bacterial degradation is known to be the most effective technique for the biodegradation approach to overcome this issue. Biodegradation has played a crucial role in removing these polluting wastes more efficiently and eco-friendly. The process of biodegradation involves a variety of bacteria, such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Bacillus weihenstephanensis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Rhodococcus ruber, and so on. Biodegradation of plastic takes place through various biochemical pathways, including biodeterioration, biofragmentation, assimilation, and mineralization. During biodegradation, bacteria produce enzymes like esterase, cutinase, laccase, lipase, and others that break down and transform plastic polymers into microbial biomass and gases. This review aims to explain how bacteria contribute to the breakdown of plastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemlata Sharma
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, JECRC University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Deepesh K Neelam
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, JECRC University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
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35
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Ghosh S, Rusyn I, Dmytruk OV, Dmytruk KV, Onyeaka H, Gryzenhout M, Gafforov Y. Filamentous fungi for sustainable remediation of pharmaceutical compounds, heavy metal and oil hydrocarbons. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1106973. [PMID: 36865030 PMCID: PMC9971017 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1106973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This review presents a comprehensive summary of the latest research in the field of bioremediation with filamentous fungi. The main focus is on the issue of recent progress in remediation of pharmaceutical compounds, heavy metal treatment and oil hydrocarbons mycoremediation that are usually insufficiently represented in other reviews. It encompasses a variety of cellular mechanisms involved in bioremediation used by filamentous fungi, including bio-adsorption, bio-surfactant production, bio-mineralization, bio-precipitation, as well as extracellular and intracellular enzymatic processes. Processes for wastewater treatment accomplished through physical, biological, and chemical processes are briefly described. The species diversity of filamentous fungi used in pollutant removal, including widely studied species of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, Verticillium, Phanerochaete and other species of Basidiomycota and Zygomycota are summarized. The removal efficiency of filamentous fungi and time of elimination of a wide variety of pollutant compounds and their easy handling make them excellent tools for the bioremediation of emerging contaminants. Various types of beneficial byproducts made by filamentous fungi, such as raw material for feed and food production, chitosan, ethanol, lignocellulolytic enzymes, organic acids, as well as nanoparticles, are discussed. Finally, challenges faced, future prospects, and how innovative technologies can be used to further exploit and enhance the abilities of fungi in wastewater remediation, are mentioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Ghosh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa,*Correspondence: Soumya Ghosh, ,
| | - Iryna Rusyn
- Department of Ecology and Sustainaible Environmental Management, Viacheslav Chornovil Institute of Sustainable Development, Lviv Polytechnic National University, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Olena V. Dmytruk
- Institute of Cell Biology NAS of Ukraine, Lviv, Ukraine,Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Kostyantyn V. Dmytruk
- Institute of Cell Biology NAS of Ukraine, Lviv, Ukraine,Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Helen Onyeaka
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Marieka Gryzenhout
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Yusufjon Gafforov
- Mycology Laboratory, Institute of Botany, Academy of Sciences of Republic of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Uzbekistan,AKFA University, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
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36
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Ivanushkina N, Aleksanyan K, Rogovina S, Kochkina G. The Use of Mycelial Fungi to Test the Fungal Resistance of Polymeric Materials. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020251. [PMID: 36838216 PMCID: PMC9959004 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020251] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
There are two main themes in the research on the biodegradation of industrial materials by mycelial fungi. The challenge of reducing environmental pollution necessitates the creation of biodegradable polymers that allow microorganisms, including mycelial fungi, to degrade them to low-molecule soluble substances. Additionally, to minimize the biodegradation of industrial materials while they are operating in the environment, there is a need to produce fungi-resistant polymer compositions. The fungal resistance of industrial materials and products can be assessed using a specific set of mycelial fungi cultures. Test cultures selected for this purpose are supported in the All-Russian Collection of Microorganisms (VKM). This review addresses the principle of culture selection to assess the fungal resistance of industrial materials and evaluates the results of the tests using these cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalya Ivanushkina
- All-Russian Collection of Microorganisms (VKM), Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, G.K. Skryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia
| | - Kristine Aleksanyan
- Semenov Federal Research Center for Chemical Physics, Department of Polymers and Composite Materials, Russian Academy of Sciences,119991 Moscow, Russia
- Engineering Center, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Svetlana Rogovina
- Semenov Federal Research Center for Chemical Physics, Department of Polymers and Composite Materials, Russian Academy of Sciences,119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Galina Kochkina
- All-Russian Collection of Microorganisms (VKM), Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, G.K. Skryabin Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +74997832952
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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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Das S, Kalyani MI. From trash to treasure: review on upcycling of fruit and vegetable wastes into starch based bioplastics. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2022:1-15. [PMID: 36565171 DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2022.2158470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Growing public concern toward environmental sustainability is currently motivating a paradigm shift toward designing easily degradable plastics that can replace conventional synthetic plastics. The massive rise in food waste generation has led to an increased burden on landfills, thereby resulting in the higher emission of greenhouse gases. Using this food waste to produce bioplastics will benefit not only the environment but also develop a systematic food waste management system. Moreover, bioplastics are preferred due to the use of biomaterials derived from renewable resources. Furthermore, bioplastics degrade faster than conventional synthetic plastics, which take years to degrade. The biodegradation of bioplastics occurs under normal environmental conditions and disintegrates into carbon dioxide, water, biomass, and inorganic compounds without producing hazardous residues. In this review, we will discuss the synthesis of starch based bioplastics using discarded parts of various fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, we will address the importance of various components in the development of starch based bioplastics, such as fillers, plasticizers, and other additives that are essential in providing the bioplastic with different physio-mechanical properties. Therefore, bioplastic production using food waste will pave the way to achieve systematic waste management and environmental sustainability in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhankar Das
- Biotechnology Unit, Mangalore University, Mangalore, India
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39
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Kim JS, Kim SH, Lee W, Seo CW, Lee JW, Park KH, Lim YW. Five Previously Unrecorded Fungal Species Isolated from Marine Plastic Wastes in South Korea. MYCOBIOLOGY 2022; 50:420-428. [PMID: 36721788 PMCID: PMC9848266 DOI: 10.1080/12298093.2022.2152951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic wastes have a negative impact on marine environments; however, they can be used as carbon sources and habitats by certain microbes. Microbes in the marine plastisphere can migrate worldwide through the ocean and cause serious environmental problems when they encounter suitable environments. Therefore, efforts to investigate the microbes inhabiting the marine plastisphere are increasing. In the present study, fungal strains were isolated from plastic wastes buried in Korean sea sands and mudflats and identified using molecular and morphological analyses. Five species were identified that were previously unrecorded from South Korea: Cladosporium funiculosum, Neosetophoma poaceicola, Neosetophoma rosigena, Parasarocladium gamsii, and Trichoderma fomiticola. Their molecular phylogenies and morphological characteristics are described in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Seon Kim
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hyun Kim
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Wonjun Lee
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang Wan Seo
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jun Won Lee
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki Hyeong Park
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Woon Lim
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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40
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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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41
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Mapook A, Hyde KD, Hassan K, Kemkuignou BM, Čmoková A, Surup F, Kuhnert E, Paomephan P, Cheng T, de Hoog S, Song Y, Jayawardena RS, Al-Hatmi AMS, Mahmoudi T, Ponts N, Studt-Reinhold L, Richard-Forget F, Chethana KWT, Harishchandra DL, Mortimer PE, Li H, Lumyong S, Aiduang W, Kumla J, Suwannarach N, Bhunjun CS, Yu FM, Zhao Q, Schaefer D, Stadler M. Ten decadal advances in fungal biology leading towards human well-being. FUNGAL DIVERS 2022; 116:547-614. [PMID: 36123995 PMCID: PMC9476466 DOI: 10.1007/s13225-022-00510-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are an understudied resource possessing huge potential for developing products that can greatly improve human well-being. In the current paper, we highlight some important discoveries and developments in applied mycology and interdisciplinary Life Science research. These examples concern recently introduced drugs for the treatment of infections and neurological diseases; application of -OMICS techniques and genetic tools in medical mycology and the regulation of mycotoxin production; as well as some highlights of mushroom cultivaton in Asia. Examples for new diagnostic tools in medical mycology and the exploitation of new candidates for therapeutic drugs, are also given. In addition, two entries illustrating the latest developments in the use of fungi for biodegradation and fungal biomaterial production are provided. Some other areas where there have been and/or will be significant developments are also included. It is our hope that this paper will help realise the importance of fungi as a potential industrial resource and see the next two decades bring forward many new fungal and fungus-derived products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ausana Mapook
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
| | - Kevin D. Hyde
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
- Innovative Institute of Plant Health, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510225 China
| | - Khadija Hassan
- Department Microbial Drugs, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), and German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Inhoffenstrasse 7, 38124 Brunswick, Germany
| | - Blondelle Matio Kemkuignou
- Department Microbial Drugs, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), and German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Inhoffenstrasse 7, 38124 Brunswick, Germany
| | - Adéla Čmoková
- Laboratory of Fungal Genetics and Metabolism, Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Frank Surup
- Department Microbial Drugs, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), and German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Inhoffenstrasse 7, 38124 Brunswick, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Spielmannstraße 7, 38106 Brunswick, Germany
| | - Eric Kuhnert
- Centre of Biomolecular Drug Research (BMWZ), Institute for Organic Chemistry, Leibniz University Hannover, Schneiderberg 38, 30167 Hannover, Germany
| | - Pathompong Paomephan
- Department Microbial Drugs, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), and German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Inhoffenstrasse 7, 38124 Brunswick, Germany
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, 272 Rama VI Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, 10400 Thailand
| | - Tian Cheng
- Department Microbial Drugs, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), and German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Inhoffenstrasse 7, 38124 Brunswick, Germany
- Laboratory of Fungal Genetics and Metabolism, Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Sybren de Hoog
- Center of Expertise in Mycology, Radboud University Medical Center / Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Microbiology, Parasitology and Pathology Graduate Program, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Yinggai Song
- Department of Dermatology, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruvishika S. Jayawardena
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
| | - Abdullah M. S. Al-Hatmi
- Center of Expertise in Mycology, Radboud University Medical Center / Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Tokameh Mahmoudi
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nadia Ponts
- INRAE, UR1264 Mycology and Food Safety (MycSA), 33882 Villenave d’Ornon, France
| | - Lena Studt-Reinhold
- Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, Institute of Microbial Genetics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | | | - K. W. Thilini Chethana
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
| | - Dulanjalee L. Harishchandra
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environment Friendly Management on Fruit Diseases and Pests in North China, Institute of Plant Protection, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097 China
| | - Peter E. Mortimer
- Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- Centre for Mountain Futures (CMF), Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Huili Li
- Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- Centre for Mountain Futures (CMF), Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Saisamorm Lumyong
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
- Academy of Science, The Royal Society of Thailand, Bangkok, 10300 Thailand
| | - Worawoot Aiduang
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
| | - Jaturong Kumla
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
| | - Nakarin Suwannarach
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
| | - Chitrabhanu S. Bhunjun
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
| | - Feng-Ming Yu
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Fungal Diversity and Green Development, Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Fungal Diversity and Green Development, Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Doug Schaefer
- Centre for Mountain Futures (CMF), Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Marc Stadler
- Department Microbial Drugs, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), and German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Inhoffenstrasse 7, 38124 Brunswick, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Spielmannstraße 7, 38106 Brunswick, Germany
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