Back to papers
0
Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Marine & Wildlife Remediation Sign in to save

Using a marine microalga as a chassis for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) degradation

Microbial Cell Factories 2019 313 citations ? Citation count from OpenAlex, updated daily. May differ slightly from the publisher's own count.
Daniel Moog, Johanna Schmitt, Jana Senger, Jan Zarzycki, Karl‐Heinz Rexer, Uwe Linne, Tobias J. Erb, Uwe G. Maier

Summary

Researchers genetically engineered a marine microalgae to produce enzymes that break down PET plastic (the kind used in bottles and synthetic fibers), demonstrating for the first time that a saltwater microalgae can be used as a biological platform for PET degradation. This proof-of-concept points toward eco-friendly, ocean-based solutions for tackling plastic pollution at its source.

Polymers
PE PET
Study Type Environmental

We provide a promising and eco-friendly solution for biological decomposition of PET waste in a saltwater-based environment by using a eukaryotic microalga instead of a bacterium as a model system. Our results show that via synthetic biology the diatom P. tricornutum indeed could be converted into a valuable chassis for biological PET degradation. Overall, this proof of principle study demonstrates the potential of the diatom system for future biotechnological applications in biological PET degradation especially for bioremediation approaches of PET polluted seawater.

Read via DOI Download PDF

Share this paper

Post Share Share Pin Email