A recent study has
revealed genetically modified bacteria with the amazing capacity to degrade
plastics in saltwater conditions, which is a game-changing discovery for the
fight against plastic pollution. This finding could fundamentally alter how we
approach the rising issue of plastic trash in our oceans. Let's explore this
fascinating study in more detail.
The
Pollution Issue with Plastics
An international
catastrophe, plastic pollution harms human health, wildlife, and marine
ecosystems. Over 8 million tons of plastic are thought to reach the oceans
annually, posing a serious danger to biodiversity and the environment. It is
crucial to find novel and long-lasting solutions to this problem.
The
Study's Findings
The most recent
research offers a promising direction in the long process of scientific
investigation into several approaches to reduce plastic pollution. A group of
scientists did a study on genetically modified bacteria that can survive in
saltwater settings. These microorganisms have a special enzyme that allows them
to degrade common plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET). By 2022,
87.16 million metric tons of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are anticipated
to have been produced worldwide. A notable portion of PET accumulates in the
environment as plastic waste after a single use. PET is extremely hydrophobic
and has a large molecular weight, making it difficult for wild-type microbes to
biodegrade. The breakdown of plastic by genetically modified microbes has
emerged as a possible solution for the plastic circular economy to address the
worldwide issue of unchecked PET pollution. Numerous investigations have been
carried out recently to increase the microbial ability for PET breakdown. In
this post, we discuss the most recent findings on protein engineering and
metabolic engineering of microbes for improved biodegradation of PET. The
emphasis is on changes made to the hydrolase class enzymes PETase, MHETase, and
cutinase, which in recent years have drawn increasing attention for their roles
in the PET degradation processes. Based on the released degradation products of
this polymer, the alterations presented in this work summarize the results so
far on the hydrolysis of polyethylene terephthalate. These enzymes are produced
by Humicola insolens (Fungus), Thermobifida fusca (Bacterium),
leaf-branch compost and Ideonella
sakaiensis (Bacterium).
Primary
Findings
Humicola insolens
Genetically
Modified Bacteria Using synthetic biology techniques, the
researchers altered the genetic composition of bacteria to provide them the
enzymes needed to successfully break down plastics.
Saltwater
Adaptation One of the major developments is the ability of
these genetically altered bacteria to flourish in saltwater conditions, which
makes them ideal for reducing ocean plastic pollution.
PET
Degradation PET, a common form of plastic used in
bottles, containers, and textiles, exhibited a surprising ability to be broken
down by the modified bacteria. Potentially decreasing and recycling plastic
trash in marine ecosystems is provided by this approach.
Environmental
Safety When introducing new species into ecosystems, it is
essential to take environmental safety into account. The researchers stressed
the significance of making sure that these genetically modified organisms
(GMOs) do not pose unforeseen dangers to the environment.
Future
Implications This research has important future
implications. These genetically altered bacteria might provide a long-term and
environmentally acceptable answer to the problem of plastic waste in our oceans
if they can be used properly and successfully. Here are a few foreseeable
future uses:
Engineered bacteria may
be utilized to remove plastic debris from ocean surfaces, lessening the
negative effects on marine life.
Recycling
Alternatives This technique may result in more
effective ways to recycle plastics, particularly PET, which is notoriously
difficult to degrade.
Environmental
Damage Mitigation By minimizing plastic pollution, we may
contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, marine ecosystems, and a
healthier environment for future generations.
In the fight against
plastic pollution, the findings of genetically altered bacteria that can degrade
plastics in saltwater represents a significant advance. This innovation gives
hope for a cleaner and more sustainable future for our oceans and the entire
planet, even though additional research and safety assessments are required
before practical use. It's critical to keep in mind that individual initiatives
to cut back on plastic use and support ethical waste management also play a
crucial part in addressing this global issue as we continue to look for novel
solutions.
Urbanek, A. K., Kosiorowska, K. E., & Mirończuk, A. M. (2021, November
30). Current Knowledge on Polyethylene Terephthalate Degradation by
Genetically Modified Microorganisms. Frontiers in Bioengineering and
Biotechnology; Frontiers Media. https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2021.771133