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Jiang J, Xu H, Cao X, Liang Y, Mo A, Cao X, Liu Y, Benbow ME, Criddle CS, Wu WM, He D. Soil-dwelling grub larvae of Protaetia brevitarsis biodegrade polystyrene: Responses of gut microbiome and host metabolism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 934:173399. [PMID: 38781836 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173399] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to terrestrial ecosystems, yet the potential for soil fauna to contribute to plastic biodegradation remains largely unexplored. In this study, we reveal that soil-dwelling grubs, Protaetia brevitarsis larvae, can effectively biodegrade polystyrene (PS) plastics. Over a period of 4 weeks, these grubs achieved a remarkable 61.5 % reduction in PS foam mass. This biodegradation was confirmed by the depolymerization of ingested PS, formation of oxidative functional groups, noticeable chemical modifications, and an increase of δ13C of residual PS in frass. Additionally, antibiotic treatment to suppress gut microbes led to variations in the biodegradation process. PS ingestion induced a significant shift in the gut microbiome, promoting the growth of degradation-related bacteria such as Promicromonosporaceae, Bacillaceae, and Paenibacillaceae. Furthermore, the digestion of plastic triggered extensive metabolomic reprogramming of grubs' intestines, enhancing redox capabilities and facilitating PS biodegradation. These results indicate that responsive adaptation of both the gut microbiome and the host's intestinal metabolism contributes to PS degradation. Collectively, these findings demonstrate P. brevitarsis larvae's capability to alleviate soil plastic pollution, and highlight the potential of researching soil fauna further for sustainable plastic waste management solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Jiang
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation of Organic Solid Waste, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Haowen Xu
- School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaomu Cao
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation of Organic Solid Waste, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yuqing Liang
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation of Organic Solid Waste, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Aoyun Mo
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation of Organic Solid Waste, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xuelong Cao
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation of Organic Solid Waste, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yan Liu
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation of Organic Solid Waste, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Mark Eric Benbow
- Department of Entomology and Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Craig S Criddle
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Center for Sustainable Development & Global Competitiveness, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-4020, USA
| | - Wei-Min Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, William & Cloy Codiga Resource Recovery Center, Center for Sustainable Development & Global Competitiveness, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-4020, USA.
| | - Defu He
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation of Organic Solid Waste, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
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2
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Yang XG, Wen PP, Yang YF, Jia PP, Li WG, Pei DS. Corrigendum: Plastic biodegradation by in vitro environmental microorganisms and in vivo gut microorganisms of insects. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1444678. [PMID: 39040902 PMCID: PMC11261735 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1444678] [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: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1001750.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Guang Yang
- State Key Laboratory Base of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Ping-Ping Wen
- State Key Laboratory Base of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi-Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory Base of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pan-Pan Jia
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei-Guo Li
- State Key Laboratory Base of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - De-Sheng Pei
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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3
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Wang Q, Chen H, Gu W, Wang S, Li Y. Biodegradation of aged polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) microplastics by yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 927:172243. [PMID: 38582118 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Globally, over 287 million tons of plastic are disposed in landfills, rivers, and oceans or are burned every year. The results are devastating to our ecosystems, wildlife and human health. One promising remedy is the yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larvae), which has proved capable of degrading microplastics (MPs). This paper presents a new investigation into the biodegradation of aged polyethylene (PE) film and polystyrene (PS) foam by the Tenebrio molitor larvae. After a 35 - day feeding period, both pristine and aged MPs can be consumed by larvae. Even with some inhibitions in larvae growth due to the limited nutrient supply of aged MPs, when compared with pristine MPs, the aged MPs were depolymerized more efficiently in gut microbiota based on gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. With the change in surface chemical properties, the metabolic intermediates of aged MPs contained more oxygen-containing functional groups and shortened long-chain alkane, which was confirmed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). High-throughput sequencing revealed that the richness and diversity of gut microbes were restricted in the MPs-fed group. Although MPs had a negative effect on the relative abundance of the two dominant bacteria Enterococcaceae and Lactobacillaceae, the aged MPs may promote the relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae and Streptococcaceae. Redundancy analysis (RDA) further verified that the aged MPs are effectively biodegraded by yellow mealworm. This work provides new insights into insect-mediated mechanisms of aged MP degradation and promising strategies for MP sustainable and efficient solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongjie Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China.
| | - Huijuan Chen
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Wanqing Gu
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Shurui Wang
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
| | - Yinghua Li
- School of Energy and Environment, Anhui University of Technology, Maanshan, Anhui 243002, China
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4
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Di Liberto EA, Battaglia G, Pellerito R, Curcuruto G, Dintcheva NT. Biodegradation of Polystyrene by Plastic-Eating Tenebrionidae Larvae. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1404. [PMID: 38794597 PMCID: PMC11125288 DOI: 10.3390/polym16101404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is an extremely stable polymer with a relatively high molecular weight and a strong hydrophobic character that makes it highly resistant to biodegradation. In this study, PS was subjected to biodegradation tests by Tenebrio Molitor (T. Molitor) and Zophobas Morio (Z. Morio) larvae. Specifically, six different experimental diets were compared: (i) T. Molitor fed with bran; (ii) T. Molitor fed only PS; (iii) T. Molitor fed only PS treated with H2O2; (iv) Z. Morio fed with bran; (v) Z. Morio fed only PS; and (vi) Z. Morio fed only PS treated with H2O2. Therefore, the mass change of the larvae and the survival rate were measured periodically, while the frass collected after 15 and 30 days was analyzed by different analyses, such as spectroscopy (FTIR), spectrometry (molecular weight and polydispersity), thermal analysis (TGA) and microscopy (scanning electron microscopy observations). The obtained results suggest that in the case of T. Molitor larvae, larvae feeding on bran showed the highest survival rate of ~94% at 30 days, while in the case of the Z. Morio larvae, the highest survival rate was exhibited by larvae eating PS-H2O2. Although not strongly pronounced, the Mw and Mn of PS in the frass of both T. Molitor and Z. Morio larvae decreased over 30 days, suggesting PS biodegradation. Finally, the morphological analysis shows that PS samples isolated from the frass of T. Molitor and Z. Morio larvae showed completely different, rough and irregularly carved surface structures, in comparison to PS before biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Alessia Di Liberto
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 6, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Battaglia
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 6, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Rosalia Pellerito
- Istituto Comprensivo Statale “Luigi Capuana”, Via A. Narbone, 55, 90138 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giusy Curcuruto
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB)—CNR, Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy;
| | - Nadka Tz. Dintcheva
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 6, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
- Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials (IPCB)—CNR, Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy;
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Gwenzi W, Gufe C, Alufasi R, Makuvara Z, Marumure J, Shanmugam SR, Selvasembian R, Halabowski D. Insects to the rescue? Insights into applications, mechanisms, and prospects of insect-driven remediation of organic contaminants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 925:171116. [PMID: 38382596 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Traditional and emerging contaminants pose significant human and environmental health risks. Conventional physical, chemical, and bioremediation techniques have been extensively studied for contaminant remediation. However, entomo- or insect-driven remediation has received limited research and public attention. Entomo-remediation refers to the use of insects, their associated gut microbiota, and enzymes to remove or mitigate organic contaminants. This novel approach shows potential as an eco-friendly method for mitigating contaminated media. However, a comprehensive review of the status, applications, and challenges of entomo-remediation is lacking. This paper addresses this research gap by examining and discussing the evidence on entomo-remediation of various legacy and emerging organic contaminants. The results demonstrate the successful application of entomo-remediation to remove legacy organic contaminants such as persistent organic pollutants. Moreover, entomo-remediation shows promise in removing various groups of emerging contaminants, including microplastics, persistent and emerging organic micropollutants (e.g., antibiotics, pesticides), and nanomaterials. Entomo-remediation involves several insect-mediated processes, including bio-uptake, biotransfer, bioaccumulation, and biotransformation of contaminants. The mechanisms underlying the biotransformation of contaminants are complex and rely on the insect gut microbiota and associated enzymes. Notably, while insects facilitate the remediation of contaminants, they may also be exposed to the ecotoxicological effects of these substances, which is often overlooked in research. As an emerging field of research, entomo-remediation has several knowledge gaps. Therefore, this review proposes ten key research questions to guide future perspectives and advance the field. These questions address areas such as process optimization, assessment of ecotoxicological effects on insects, and evaluation of potential human exposure and health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willis Gwenzi
- Biosystems and Environmental Engineering Research Group, 380 New Adylin, Marlborough, Harare, Zimbabwe; Alexander von Humboldt Fellow and Guest Professor, Grassland Science and Renewable Plant Resources, Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, Universität Kassel, Steinstraße 19, D-37213 Witzenhausen, Germany; Alexander von Humboldt Fellow and Guest Professor, Leibniz-Institut für Agrartechnik und Bioökonomie e.V. (ATB), Max-Eyth-Allee 100, D-14469 Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Claudious Gufe
- Department of Veterinary Technical Services, Central Veterinary Laboratories, 18A Bevan Building, Borrowdale Road, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Richwell Alufasi
- Biological Sciences Department, Bindura University of Science Education, 741 Chimurenga Road, Off Trojan Road, P. Bag 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe
| | - Zakio Makuvara
- Department of Physics, Geography and Environmental Science, School of Natural Sciences, Great Zimbabwe University, Masvingo, Zimbabwe; Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, South Africa
| | - Jerikias Marumure
- Department of Physics, Geography and Environmental Science, School of Natural Sciences, Great Zimbabwe University, Masvingo, Zimbabwe; Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, South Africa
| | | | - Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Sciences, SRM University-AP, Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh 522240, India
| | - Dariusz Halabowski
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of Ecology and Vertebrate Zoology, Lodz, Poland
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6
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Xu L, Li Z, Wang L, Xu Z, Zhang S, Zhang Q. Progress in polystyrene biodegradation by insect gut microbiota. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:143. [PMID: 38530548 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-03932-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is frequently used in the plastics industry. However, its structural stability and difficulty to break down lead to an abundance of plastic waste in the environment, resulting in micro-nano plastics (MNPs). As MNPs are severe hazards to both human and environmental health, it is crucial to develop innovative treatment technologies to degrade plastic waste. The biodegradation of plastics by insect gut microorganisms has gained attention as it is environmentally friendly, efficient, and safe. However, our knowledge of the biodegradation of PS is still limited. This review summarizes recent research advances on PS biodegradation by gut microorganisms/enzymes from insect larvae of different species, and schematic pathways of the degradation process are discussed in depth. Additionally, the prospect of using modern biotechnology, such as genetic engineering and systems biology, to identify novel PS-degrading microbes/functional genes/enzymes and to realize new strategies for PS biodegradation is highlighted. Challenges and limitations faced by the application of genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) and multiomics technologies in the field of plastic pollution bioremediation are also discussed. This review encourages the further exploration of the biodegradation of PS by insect gut microbes/enzymes, offering a cutting-edge perspective to identify PS biodegradation pathways and create effective biodegradation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luhui Xu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zelin Li
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Liuwei Wang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Zihang Xu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Shulin Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Qinghua Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, 330045, China.
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7
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Skawina A, Dąbrowska A, Bonk A, Paterczyk B, Nowakowska J. Tracking the micro- and nanoplastics in the terrestrial-freshwater food webs. Bivalves as sentinel species. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170468. [PMID: 38296093 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Micro- (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are currently ubiquitous in the ecosystems, and freshwater biota is still insufficiently studied to understand the global fate, transport paths, and consequences of their presence. Thus, in this study, we investigated the role of bivalves and a trophic transfer of MPs and NPs in an experimental food chain. The food chain consisted of terrestrial non-selective detritivore Dendrobaena (Eisenia) sp., freshwater benthic filter feeder Unio tumidus, and freshwater benthic detritivore-collectors Asellus aquaticus or Gammarus sp. Animals were exposed to different fluorescently labeled micro- and nanoplastics (PMMA 20 μm, nanoPS 15-18 nm, and 100 nm, PS 1 μm and 20 μm, PE from cosmetics) as well as to the faeces of animals exposed to plastics to assess their influence on the environmental transportation, availability to biota, and bioaccumulation of supplied particles. Damaged and intact fluorescent particles were observed in the faeces of terrestrial detritivores and in the droppings of aquatic filter feeders, respectively. They were also present in the guts of bivalves and of crustaceans which were fed with bivalve droppings. Bivalves (Unio tumidus, and additionally Unio pictorum, and Sphaerium corneum) produced droppings containing micro- and nanoparticles filtered from suspension and deposited them onto the tank bottom, making them available for broader feeding guilds of animals (e.g. collectors, like crustaceans). Finally, the natural ageing of PS and its morphological changes, leakage of the fluorescent labelling, and agglomeration of particles were demonstrated. That supports our hypothesis of the crucial role of the characterization of physical and chemical materials in adequately understanding the mechanisms of their interaction with biota. Microscopical methods (confocal, fluorescent, scanning electron) and Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy were used to track the particles' passage in a food web and monitor structural changes of the MPs' and NPs' surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Skawina
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Żwirki i Wigury 101 Str., 02-089 Warsaw, Poland; University of Warsaw, Faculty of Biology, Institute of Functional Biology and Ecology, Miecznikowa 1 Str., 02-096 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Dąbrowska
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Chemistry, Laboratory of Spectroscopy and Intermolecular Interactions, Pasteura 1 Str., 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Agata Bonk
- University of Bremen, Faculty 2 Biology, Chemistry Leobener Str., 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Bohdan Paterczyk
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Biology, Imaging Laboratory, Miecznikowa 1 Str., 02-096 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Julita Nowakowska
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Biology, Imaging Laboratory, Miecznikowa 1 Str., 02-096 Warsaw, Poland
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8
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Venegas S, Alarcón C, Araya J, Gatica M, Morin V, Tarifeño-Saldivia E, Uribe E. Biodegradation of Polystyrene by Galleria mellonella: Identification of Potential Enzymes Involved in the Degradative Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1576. [PMID: 38338857 PMCID: PMC10855133 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031576] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is a lepidopteran whose larval stage has shown the ability to degrade polystyrene (PS), one of the most recalcitrant plastics to biodegradation. In the present study, we fed G. mellonella larvae with PS for 54 days and determined candidate enzymes for its degradation. We first confirmed the biodegradation of PS by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy- Attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) and then identified candidate enzymes in the larval gut by proteomic analysis using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Two of these proteins have structural similarities to the styrene-degrading enzymes described so far. In addition, potential hydrolases, isomerases, dehydrogenases, and oxidases were identified that show little similarity to the bacterial enzymes that degrade styrene. However, their response to a diet based solely on polystyrene makes them interesting candidates as a potential new group of polystyrene-metabolizing enzymes in eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián Venegas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepción, Concepción 4070409, Chile; (S.V.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Carolina Alarcón
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepción, Concepción 4070409, Chile; (S.V.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Juan Araya
- Department of Instrumental Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepción, Concepción 4070409, Chile;
| | - Marcell Gatica
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepción, Concepción 4070409, Chile; (S.V.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Violeta Morin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepción, Concepción 4070409, Chile; (S.V.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Estefanía Tarifeño-Saldivia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepción, Concepción 4070409, Chile; (S.V.); (C.A.); (M.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Elena Uribe
- Department of Instrumental Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepción, Concepción 4070409, Chile;
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9
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Quan Z, Zhao Z, Liu Z, Wang W, Yao S, Liu H, Lin X, Li QX, Yan H, Liu X. Biodegradation of polystyrene microplastics by superworms (larve of Zophobas atratus): Gut microbiota transition, and putative metabolic ways. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 343:140246. [PMID: 37741374 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Superworm (larve of Zophobas atratus) could consume foams of expanded polystyrene plastics. However, there is no sufficient understanding of the impact of microplastics on superworms and the degradation pathways of polystyrene. Herein, we explored the weight and survival change of superworms while fed with polystyrene microplastics, and found that survival rate and mean weight would reduce. In terms of gut microbial community structure of surperworms, significant shifts were detected with the relative abundance of Hafnia-Obesumbacterium sp. increasing. In addition, we domesticated two microbiota from the gut of superworms, and confirmed their ability to degrade PS in vitro. The last but most important, 1291 metabolites were identified by HPLC-TOF-MS/MS, and six metabolites related to polystyrene degradation were identified through comparative metabolomic analysis. According to the content and pathways of these metabolites, three metabolic pathways of polystyrene were (a) styrene-phenylacetyl-CoA-L-2-aminoadipic acid; (b) styrene-phenylacetyl-CoA-benzaldehyde; (c) styrene-2-hydroxyacetophenone. These results would help to further screen bacteria of PS degradation and investigate PS metabolic pathways in invertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaolin Quan
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zixi Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zhimin Liu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Weijun Wang
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Shunyu Yao
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Huiren Liu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Lin
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Qing X Li
- Department of Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Hai Yan
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaolu Liu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China.
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10
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Jung H, Shin G, Park SB, Jegal J, Park SA, Park J, Oh DX, Kim HJ. Circular waste management: Superworms as a sustainable solution for biodegradable plastic degradation and resource recovery. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 171:568-579. [PMID: 37812971 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics offer a promising solution to plastic pollution, however, their production frequently relies on edible biomass, and their degradation rates remain inadequate. This study investigates the potential of superworms (Zophobas atratus larvae) for polybutylene succinate (PBS) waste management, aiming to achieve both resource recovery and biodegradation. Superworms exclusively fed on PBS for a month exhibited the same survival rate as those on a standard bran diet. PBS digestion yielded a 5.13% weight gain and a 23.23% increase in protein composition in superworms. Additionally, carbon isotope analyses substantiated the conversion of PBS into superworm components. Gut microbes capable of PBS biodegradation became progressively prominent, further augmenting the degradation rate of PBS under composting conditions (ISO 14855-1). Gut-free superworms fed with PBS exhibited antioxidant activities comparable to those of blueberries, renowned for their high antioxidant activity. Based on these findings, this study introduces a sustainable circular solution encompassing recycling PBS waste to generate insect biomass, employing insect gut and frass for PBS degradation and fertilizer, and harnessing insect residue as a food source. In essence, the significance of this research extends to socio-economic and environmental spheres, impacting waste management, resource efficiency, circular economy promotion, environmental preservation, industrial advancement, and global sustainability objectives. The study's outcomes possess the potential to reshape society's approach to plastic waste, facilitating a shift toward more sustainable paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyuni Jung
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Giyoung Shin
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Bae Park
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonggeon Jegal
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Seul-A Park
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeyoung Park
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dongyeop X Oh
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea; Department of Polymer Science and Engineering and Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyo Jeong Kim
- Research Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Kang MG, Kwak MJ, Kim Y. Polystyrene microplastics biodegradation by gut bacterial Enterobacter hormaechei from mealworms under anaerobic conditions: Anaerobic oxidation and depolymerization. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132045. [PMID: 37480606 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic plastic is used throughout daily life and industry, threatening organisms with microplastic pollution. Polystyrene is a major plastic polymer and also widely found sources of plastic wastes and microplastics. Here, we report that Enterobacter hormaechei LG3 (CP118279.1), a facultative anaerobic bacterial strain isolated from the gut of Tenebrio molitor larvae (mealworms) can oxidize and depolymerize polystyrene under anaerobic conditions. LG3 performed biodegradation while forming a biofilm on the plastic surface. PS biodegradation was characterized by analyses of surface oxidation, change in morphology and molecular weights, and production of biodegraded derivative. The biodegradation performance by LG3 was compared with PS biodegradation by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SCGB1 under both anaerobic and aerobic conditions. In addition, through nanopore sequencing technology, we identified degradative enzymes, including thiol peroxidase (tpx), alkyl hydroperoxide reductase C (ahpC) and bacterioferritin comigratory protein (bcp). Along with the upregulation of degradative enzymes for biodegradation, changes in lipid A and biofilm-associated proteins were also observed after the cells were incubated with polystyrene microplastics. Our results provide evidence for anaerobic biodegradation by polystyrene-degrading bacteria and show alterations in gene expression patterns after polystyrene microplastics treatment in the opportunistic pathogen Enterobacter hormaechei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Geun Kang
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jin Kwak
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Younghoon Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
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12
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Daghighi E, Shah T, Chia RW, Lee JY, Shang J, Rodríguez-Seijo A. The forgotten impacts of plastic contamination on terrestrial micro- and mesofauna: A call for research. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116227. [PMID: 37244494 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP) contamination of the terrestrial environment is a growing concern worldwide and is thought to impact soil biota, particularly the micro and mesofauna community, by various processes that may contribute to global change in terrestrial systems. Soils act as a long-term sink for MP, accumulating these contaminants and increasing their adverse impacts on soil ecosystems. Consequently, the whole terrestrial ecosystem is impacted by microplastic pollution, which also threatens human health by their potential transfer to the soil food web. In general, the ingestion of MP in different concentrations by soil micro and mesofauna can adversely affect their development and reproduction, impacting terrestrial ecosystems. MP in soil moves horizontally and vertically because of the movement of soil organisms and the disturbance caused by plants. However, the effects of MP on terrestrial micro-and mesofauna are largely overlooked. Here, we give the most recent information on the forgotten impacts of MP contamination of soil on microfauna and mesofauna communities (protists, tardigrades, soil rotifers, nematodes, collembola and mites). More than 50 studies focused on the impact of MP on these organisms between 1990 and 2022 have been reviewed. In general, plastic pollution does not directly affect the survival of organisms, except under co-contaminated plastics that can increase adverse effects (e.g. tire-tread particles on springtails). Besides, they can have adverse effects at oxidative stress and reduced reproduction (protists, nematodes, potworms, springtails or mites). It was observed that micro and mesofauna could act as passive plastic transporters, as shown for springtails or mites. Finally, this review discusses how soil micro- and mesofauna play a key role in facilitating the (bio-)degradation and movement of MP and NP through soil systems and, therefore, the potential transfer to soil depths. More research should be focused on plastic mixtures, community level and long-term experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaheh Daghighi
- BetterSoil e. V., Lise-Meitner-Straße 9, D-89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tufail Shah
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - R W Chia
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Earth Resources, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Yong Lee
- Department of Geology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Earth Resources, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jianying Shang
- College of Land Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Andrés Rodríguez-Seijo
- Área de Edafoloxía e Química Agrícola, Departamento de Bioloxía Vexetal e Ciencia Do Solo, Facultade de Ciencias de Ourense, Universidade de Vigo, As Lagoas S/n, Ourense, 32004, Spain; Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros Do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos S/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal.
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13
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Nyamjav I, Jang Y, Park N, Lee YE, Lee S. Physicochemical and Structural Evidence that Bacillus cereus Isolated from the Gut of Waxworms ( Galleria mellonella Larvae) Biodegrades Polypropylene Efficiently In Vitro. JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT 2023; 31:1-14. [PMID: 37361349 PMCID: PMC10171730 DOI: 10.1007/s10924-023-02878-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradation of plastic waste using microorganisms has been proposed as one of the solutions to the increasing worldwide plastic waste. Polypropylene (PP) is the second most used plastic used in various industries, and it has been widely used in the production of personal protective equipment such as masks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, biodegradation of PP becomes very important. Here, we present results on the physicochemical and structural studies of PP biodegradation by Bacillus cereus isolated from the gut of the waxworms, Galleria mellonella larvae. We also studied the biodegradability of PP by the gut microbiota compared with Bacillus cereus. We analyzed the microbial degradation of the PP surface using scanning electron microscopy and energy - dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and confirmed that the physical and chemical changes were caused by Bacillus cereus and the gut microbiota. The chemical structural changes were further investigated using X-ray photoelectron microscopy and Fourier - transform - infrared spectroscopy, and it was confirmed that the oxidation of the PP surface proceeded with the formation of carbonyl groups (C=O), ester groups (C-O), and hydroxyl groups (-OH) by Bacillus cereus. Additionally, the gut microbiota composed of diverse microbial species showed equal oxidation of PP compared to Bacillus cereus. More importantly, high temperature gel permeation chromatography (HT-GPC) analysis showed that Bacillus cereus exhibited quantitatively a higher biodegradability of PP compared to the gut microbiota. Our results suggest that Bacillus cereus possesses a complete set of enzymes required to initiate the oxidation of the carbon chain of PP and will be used to discover new enzymes and genes that are involved in degrading PP. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10924-023-02878-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indra Nyamjav
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988 Republic of Korea
| | - Yejin Jang
- School of Undergraduate Studies, College of Transdisciplinary Studies, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988 Republic of Korea
| | - Nohyoon Park
- School of Undergraduate Studies, College of Transdisciplinary Studies, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988 Republic of Korea
| | - Ye Eun Lee
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988 Republic of Korea
| | - Sukkyoo Lee
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988 Republic of Korea
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Hoe Tay J, Asib N, Abd Aziz NA, Hun Tan G. Biodegradation of Expanded and Extruded Polystyrene with Different Diets by Using Zophobas atratus Larvae (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE 2023; 46:459-483. [DOI: 10.47836/pjtas.46.2.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Polystyrene waste pollutes the environment and poses a significant health risk to humans, animals, and marine ecology. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of degradation on expanded (EPS) and extruded (XPS) polystyrene with different diets using superworms (Zophobas atratus larvae) obtained in Malaysia. The growth and development of the larvae after consumption of EPS and XPS and the gut microbial community changes in response to high polystyrene consumption diets were also identified. The oatmeal, wheat bran, and cornmeal were used as supplement diets and showed significantly enhanced EPS and XPS consumption and degradation compared to sole diet treatment. Gel permeation chromatography was carried out using egested frass of Z. atratus larvae to characterize depolymerization of EPS and XPS, indicating a significant reduction in the average molecular weight and average molecular weight. The highest reduction occurred in the presence of oatmeal. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses indicated functional group changes and chemical modification occurred with depolymerization and partial oxidation of EPS and XPS. The larvae length increased, while the number of instars and duration of larvae became shorter with the addition of supplement diets. Oatmeal is predominantly effective among other supplements in assisting Z. atratus larvae with EPS and XPS degradation. The results of this study support the ubiquity of polystyrene biodegradation in Z. atratus and the next-generation sequencing studies. Kluyvera sp., Klebsiella sp., and Enterobacter sp. were found to be strongly associated with degrading EPS and XPS polystyrene with oatmeal as a supplemental diet.
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15
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Tournier V, Duquesne S, Guillamot F, Cramail H, Taton D, Marty A, André I. Enzymes' Power for Plastics Degradation. Chem Rev 2023; 123:5612-5701. [PMID: 36916764 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are everywhere in our modern way of living, and their production keeps increasing every year, causing major environmental concerns. Nowadays, the end-of-life management involves accumulation in landfills, incineration, and recycling to a lower extent. This ecological threat to the environment is inspiring alternative bio-based solutions for plastic waste treatment and recycling toward a circular economy. Over the past decade, considerable efforts have been made to degrade commodity plastics using biocatalytic approaches. Here, we provide a comprehensive review on the recent advances in enzyme-based biocatalysis and in the design of related biocatalytic processes to recycle or upcycle commodity plastics, including polyesters, polyamides, polyurethanes, and polyolefins. We also discuss scope and limitations, challenges, and opportunities of this field of research. An important message from this review is that polymer-assimilating enzymes are very likely part of the solution to reaching a circular plastic economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Tournier
- Carbios, Parc Cataroux-Bâtiment B80, 8 rue de la Grolière, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sophie Duquesne
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, TBI, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France, 135, avenue de Rangueil, F-31077 Toulouse Cedex 04, France
| | - Frédérique Guillamot
- Carbios, Parc Cataroux-Bâtiment B80, 8 rue de la Grolière, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Henri Cramail
- Université Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, LCPO, 16 Avenue Pey-Berland, 33600 Pessac, France
| | - Daniel Taton
- Université Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, LCPO, 16 Avenue Pey-Berland, 33600 Pessac, France
| | - Alain Marty
- Carbios, Parc Cataroux-Bâtiment B80, 8 rue de la Grolière, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Isabelle André
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, TBI, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France, 135, avenue de Rangueil, F-31077 Toulouse Cedex 04, France
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16
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An R, Liu C, Wang J, Jia P. Recent Advances in Degradation of Polymer Plastics by Insects Inhabiting Microorganisms. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15051307. [PMID: 36904548 PMCID: PMC10007075 DOI: 10.3390/polym15051307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution endangers all natural ecosystems and living creatures on earth. Excessive reliance on plastic products and excessive production of plastic packaging are extremely dangerous for humans because plastic waste has polluted almost the entire world, whether it is in the sea or on the land. This review introduces the examination of pollution brought by non-degradable plastics, the classification and application of degradable materials, and the current situation and strategy to address plastic pollution and plastic degradation by insects, which mainly include Galleria mellonella, Zophobas atratus, Tenebrio molitor, and other insects. The efficiency of plastic degradation by insects, biodegradation mechanism of plastic waste, and the structure and composition of degradable products are reviewed. The development direction of degradable plastics in the future and plastic degradation by insects are prospected. This review provides effective ways to solve plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong An
- School of Geographic and Biologic Information, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Chengguo Liu
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, 16 Suojin North Road, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Jun Wang
- School of Geographic and Biologic Information, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China
- Correspondence: (J.W.); (P.J.)
| | - Puyou Jia
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, 16 Suojin North Road, Nanjing 210042, China
- Correspondence: (J.W.); (P.J.)
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17
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Shah R, Nguyen TV, Marcora A, Ruffell A, Hulthen A, Pham K, Wijffels G, Paull C, Beale DJ. Exposure to polylactic acid induces oxidative stress and reduces the ceramide levels in larvae of greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 220:115137. [PMID: 36563977 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.115137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plastic biodegradation by insects has made significant progress, opening up new avenues for the treatment of plastic waste. Wax moth larvae, for example, have attracted the attention of the scientific community because they are known to chew, ingest, and biodegrade natural polymer bee waxes. Despite this, we know very little about how these insects perform on manufactured plastics or how manufactured plastics affect insect metabolism. As a result, we studied the metabolism of greater wax moths (Galleria mellonella) fed on molasses-supplemented polylactic acid plastic (PLA) blocks. An analysis of the central carbon metabolism (CCM) metabolites was performed using liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-QQQ-MS), while an analysis of untargeted metabolites and lipids was conducted using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QToF-MS). In total, 169 targeted CCM metabolites, 222 untargeted polar metabolites, and 196 untargeted nonpolar lipids were identified within the insect samples. In contrast, compared to control larvae, PLA-fed larvae displayed significantly different levels of 97 CCM metabolites, 75 polar metabolites, and 57 lipids. Purine and pyrimidine metabolisms were affected by PLA feeding, as well as amino acid metabolism, carbohydrates, cofactors, vitamins, and related metabolisms. Additionally, PLA exposure disrupted insect energy metabolism and oxidative stress, among other metabolic disturbances. The larvae fed PLA have lower levels of several lipids, suggesting a reduction in lipid reserves, and ceramide levels are likely to have changed due to apoptosis and inflammation. The study indicates that G. mellonella larvae could ingest PLA but this process causes some metabolic stress for the host. Future studies of the molecular pathways of this biodegradation process might help to provide strategies for stress reduction that would speed up insect digestion of plastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Shah
- Land and Water, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Thao V Nguyen
- Land and Water, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Anna Marcora
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Angela Ruffell
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, St Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia
| | - Andrew Hulthen
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Khoa Pham
- CSIRO Manufacturing, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Clayton VIC 4067, Australia
| | - Gene Wijffels
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, St Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia
| | - Cate Paull
- Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park QLD 4102, Australia
| | - David J Beale
- Land and Water, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Ecosciences Precinct, Dutton Park QLD 4102, Australia.
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18
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Goveas LC, Nayak S, Kumar PS, Rangasamy G, Vidya SM, Vinayagam R, Selvaraj R, Vo DVN. Microplastics occurrence, detection and removal with emphasis on insect larvae gut microbiota. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 188:114580. [PMID: 36657228 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114580] [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: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have been identified in all living forms including human beings, the present need is to restrain its spread and devise measures to remediate microplastics from polluted ecosystems. In this regard, the present review emphasizes on the occurrence, sources detection and toxic effects of microplastics in various ecosystems. The removal of microplastics is prevalent by various physico-chemical and biological methods, although the removal efficiency by biological methods is low. It has been noted that the degradation of plastics by insect gut larvae is a well-known aspect, however, the underlying mechanism has not been completely identified. Studies conducted have shown the magnificent contribution of gut microbiota, which have been isolated and exploited for microplastic remediation. This review also focuses on this avenue, as it highlights the contribution of insect gut microbiota in microplastic degradation along with challenges faced and future prospects in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louella Concepta Goveas
- Nitte (Deemed to be University), NMAM Institute of Technology (NMAMIT), Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Nitte, India
| | - Sneha Nayak
- Nitte (Deemed to be University), NMAM Institute of Technology (NMAMIT), Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Nitte, India
| | - P Senthil Kumar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Chennai 603 110, India; Centre of Excellence in Water Research (CEWAR), Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Chennai 603 110, India; Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, India; School of Engineering, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon.
| | - Gayathri Rangasamy
- School of Engineering, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon; Department of Sustainable Engineering, Institute of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, SIMATS, Chennai 602105, India
| | - S M Vidya
- Nitte (Deemed to be University), NMAM Institute of Technology (NMAMIT), Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Nitte, India.
| | - Ramesh Vinayagam
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India
| | - Raja Selvaraj
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka 576104, India.
| | - Dai Viet N Vo
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
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19
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Yang XG, Wen PP, Yang YF, Jia PP, Li WG, Pei DS. Plastic biodegradation by in vitro environmental microorganisms and in vivo gut microorganisms of insects. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1001750. [PMID: 36687617 PMCID: PMC9852869 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1001750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional plastics, such as polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyurethane (PUR), and other plastic polymers, are difficult to degrade and are gradually accumulated in the environment to cause a serious environmental problem, which is urgently needed to develop novel treatments or control technology. The biodegradation of plastics has gained great attention due to the advantages of green and safe characteristics. Microorganisms play a vital role in the biodegradation of plastics, including environmental microbes (in vitro) and gut microbes of insects (in vivo). Microbial degradation in environmental conditions in vitro is extremely slow for major plastics at degradation rates on the basis of a month or even a year time, but recent discoveries show that the fast biodegradation of specific plastics, such as PS, PE, and PUR, in some invertebrates, especially insects, could be enhanced at rates on basis of hours; the biodegradation in insects is likely to be gut microbial-dependent or synergetic bioreactions in animal digestive systems. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest 7-year (2016-2022) publications on plastic biodegradation by insects and microorganisms, elucidates the mechanism of plastic degradation in insects and environmental microbes, and highlights the cutting-edge perspectives for the potential applications of plastic biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Guang Yang
- State Key Laboratory Base of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Ping-Ping Wen
- State Key Laboratory Base of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi-Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory Base of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pan-Pan Jia
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei-Guo Li
- State Key Laboratory Base of Cell Differentiation and Regulation, College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - De-Sheng Pei
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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20
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Leicht A, Gatz-Schrupp J, Masuda H. Discovery of Nylon 11 ingestion by mealworm ( Tenebrio molitor) larvae and detection of monomer-degrading bacteria in gut microbiota. AIMS Microbiol 2022; 8:612-623. [PMID: 36694582 PMCID: PMC9834084 DOI: 10.3934/microbiol.2022039] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Nylon 11, which can be found in many commercial products, is a synthetic plastic that has previously been considered non-biodegradable. Increasing nylon 11 and other plastics in landfills and in the environment pose an environmental concern. Recent studies on plastic biodegradation revealed that initial mechanical fragmentations increase the rate of degradation. In this study, we discovered that the larvae of mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) can masticate nylon 11 film at the rate of 0.25 ± 0.07 mg per fifty larvae per day. The body mass of larvae did not differ from that of starvation control while feeding on nylon 11. Comparison of gut microbiota in nylon-fed and starving larvae showed a shift in composition. There was a significant variation in community composition among the nylon 11-fed experimental groups, suggesting that many organisms are capable of metabolizing nylon 11 fragments and/or possess a growth advantage in a nylon-fed gut environment. We also discovered that a significant fraction of gut microbiome of control larvae is capable of metabolizing nylon 11 monomer (11-aminoundecanoic acid) even in the absence of prior exposure to nylon 11. This is the first study demonstrating ingestion of nylon polymers by invertebrates, and our results suggest the potential of mealworm larvae for nylon 11 biodegradation applications.
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21
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Jiménez‐Arroyo C, Tamargo A, Molinero N, Moreno‐Arribas MV. The gut microbiota, a key to understanding the health implications of micro(nano)plastics and their biodegradation. Microb Biotechnol 2022; 16:34-53. [PMID: 36415969 PMCID: PMC9803334 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of plastic debris on the environment and plant, animal, and human health are a global challenge, with micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) being the main focus. MNPs are found so often in the food chain that they are provoking an increase in human intake. They have been detected in most categories of consumed foods, drinking water, and even human feces. Therefore, oral ingestion becomes the main source of exposure to MNPs, and the gastrointestinal tract, primarily the gut, constantly interacts with these small particles. The consequences of human exposure to MNPs remain unclear. However, current in vivo studies and in vitro gastrointestinal tract models have shown that MNPs of several types and sizes impact gut intestinal bacteria, affecting gut homeostasis. The typical microbiome signature of MNP ingestion is often associated with dysbiosis and loss of resilience, leads to frequent pathogen outbreaks, and local and systemic metabolic disorders. Moreover, the small micro- and nano-plastic particles found in animal tissues with accumulated evidence of microbial degradation of plastics/MNPs by bacteria and insect gut microbiota raise the issue of whether human gut bacteria make key contributions to the bio-transformation of ingested MNPs. Here, we discuss these issues and unveil the complex interplay between MNPs and the human gut microbiome. Therefore, the elucidation of the biological consequences of this interaction on both host and microbiota is undoubtedly challenging. It is expected that microbial biotechnology and microbiome research could help decipher the extent to which gut microorganisms diversify and MNP-determinant species, mechanisms, and enzymatic systems, as well as become important to understand our response to MNP exposure and provide background information to inspire future holistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alba Tamargo
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL)CSIC‐UAMMadridSpain
| | - Natalia Molinero
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL)CSIC‐UAMMadridSpain
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22
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Wang X, Tang T. Effects of Polystyrene Diet on the Growth and Development of Tenebrio molitor. TOXICS 2022; 10:608. [PMID: 36287887 PMCID: PMC9610515 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10100608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the role of Tenebrio molitor in degrading polystyrene foam through its gut microbes has become the focus of research. However, little literature has reported the effect of feeding on polystyrene foam on the growth and development of Tenebrio molitor. In this study, we investigated the impacts of different polystyrene by evaluating the vital signs of Tenebrio molitor fed in the intestines and excrement fluids using RNA-Seq t.echnology and then verifying the transcriptome sequencing findings using qRT-PCR technology. The average weight of Tenebrio molitor larvae in the wheat bran group increased significantly. Tenebrio molitor larvae in the PS group, on the other hand, didn't grow as much and had a much lower average weight than those in the wheat bran group. Compared to the bran group, the excrement of Tenebrio molitor fed only on polystyrene foam was flaky and coarse, increased nitrogen and phosphorus atomic concentration ratios by about 50%, decreased potassium atomic concentration ratios by 63%, with the enterocytes and circular muscle of Tenebrio molitor falling as well. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment indicated that the differential genes were mainly related to metabolic pathways. There was an agreement between qRT-PCR and RNA-Seq analyses for the growth and development genes chitinase, heat shock protein 70, and cytochrome P450. Only feeding polystyrene foam shall lead to the growth and development retardation of Tenebrio molitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosu Wang
- School of Tropical Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Tianle Tang
- School of Tropical Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
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23
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Zhang Y, Pedersen JN, Eser BE, Guo Z. Biodegradation of polyethylene and polystyrene: From microbial deterioration to enzyme discovery. Biotechnol Adv 2022; 60:107991. [PMID: 35654281 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2022.107991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The global production of plastics has continuously been soaring over the last decades due to their extensive use in our daily life and in industries. Although synthetic plastics offer great advantages from packaging to construction and electronics, their low biodegradability induce serious plastic pollution that damage the environment, human health and make irreversible changes in the ecological cycle. In particular, plastics containing only carbon-carbon (C-C) backbone are less susceptible to degradation due to the lack of hydrolysable groups. The representative polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) account for about 40% of the total plastic production. Various chemical and biological processes with great potential have been developed for plastic recycle and reuse, but biodegradation seems to be the most attractive and eco-friendly method to combat this growing environmental problem. In this review, we first summarize the current advances in PE and PS biodegradation, including isolation of microbes and potential degrading enzymes from different sources. Next, the state-of-the-art techniques used for evaluating and monitoring PE and PS degradation, the scientific toolboxes for enzyme discovery as well as the challenges and strategies for plastic biodegradation are intensively discussed. In return, it inspires a further technological exploration in expanding the diversity of species and enzymes, disclosing the essential pathways and developing new approaches to utilize plastic waste as feedstock for recycling and upcycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Bekir Engin Eser
- Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Zheng Guo
- Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark.
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24
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Pivato AF, Miranda GM, Prichula J, Lima JEA, Ligabue RA, Seixas A, Trentin DS. Hydrocarbon-based plastics: Progress and perspectives on consumption and biodegradation by insect larvae. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 293:133600. [PMID: 35031254 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.133600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The obvious contrast between the remarkable durability and the high consumption of plastic products leads to the deposition of at least 100 million tons of plastics per year in nature. Since 2010, several studies have shown the potential of insect larvae to biodegrade different types of plastics, at higher rates than those reported for microorganisms. This review discusses a compilation of studies about the consumption and biodegradation of hydrocarbon-based plastics, particularly PE, PS, PP and PVC, by lepidopteran and coleopteran larvae. Insects of the Coleoptera order seem to have a better adaptation for PS biodegradation, while those of the Lepidoptera order can better biodegrade PE. Tenebrio molitor biomineralize PE and PS into CO2, and PVC into HCl; while Tenebrio obscurus and Zophobas atratus converts PE and PS into CO2, respectively. Plastic biodegradation by T. molitor has been shown to be dependent on microbiota, exception for PE. Similar PS and PE biodegradation profile has been shown for T. obscurus. PS, PP and PE biodegradation by Z. atratus is also reported to be microbial-dependent. For Galleria mellonella, microbial role on PE biodegradation is still controversial, but the PS metabolism was proved to be microbiota-independent. Advances in this field has stimulated new studies with other insect species, which need to be better explored. Uncovering and understanding the chemical processes behind the innate plastic biodegradation by insect larvae will open the perspective to new eco-friendly innovative biotechnological solutions for the challenge of plastic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andressa F Pivato
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Departamento de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Laboratório de Microbiologia Molecular, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gabriela M Miranda
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Escola Politécnica, Laboratório de Organometálicos e Resinas, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Janira Prichula
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Departamento de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Laboratório de Microbiologia Molecular, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jeane E A Lima
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Escola Politécnica, Laboratório de Organometálicos e Resinas, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Rosane A Ligabue
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Escola Politécnica, Laboratório de Organometálicos e Resinas, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Adriana Seixas
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Departamento de Farmacociências, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Danielle S Trentin
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Departamento de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Laboratório de Microbiologia Molecular, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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25
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Singh Jadaun J, Bansal S, Sonthalia A, Rai AK, Singh SP. Biodegradation of plastics for sustainable environment. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 347:126697. [PMID: 35026422 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.126697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are a kind of utility product that has become part and parcel of one's life. Their continuous usage, accumulation, and contamination of soil and water pose a severe threat to the biotic and abiotic components of the environment. It not only increases the carbon footprints but also contributes to global warming. This calls for an urgent need to develop novel strategies for the efficient degradation of plastics. The microbial strains equipped with the potential of degrading plastic materials, which can further be converted into usable products, are blessings for the ecosystem. This review comprehensively summarizes the microbial technologies to degrade different plastic types, such as polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), and polyurethane (PU). The study also describes the utilization of degraded plastic material as feedstock for its conversion into high-value chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Singh Jadaun
- Department of Botany, Dayanand Girls Postgraduate College, Kanpur 208001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shilpi Bansal
- ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi 10012, India
| | - Ankit Sonthalia
- SRM Institute of Science and Technology, NCR Campus, Modi Nagar- 201204, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amit K Rai
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Regional Centre, Tadong, Sikkim, India
| | - Sudhir P Singh
- Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing, SAS Nagar, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India.
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