Plastic Pollution and the PET Problem
Plastic pollution is a global crisis that is wreaking havoc on our coasts and
oceans. Among the many culprits contributing to this environmental catastrophe
are plastic objects made from polyethylene terephthalate, or PET. These
objects, once discarded, can linger in the environment for hundreds of years,
causing harm to marine life and ecosystems. However, a recent scientific
breakthrough offers a glimmer of hope in the fight against plastic pollution.
Unveiling PET46: A Remarkable Enzyme
Scientist's explored the capability of microorganisms to continuously degrade
PET polymers using enzymes. The research team identified and characterized a
novel PET-degrading enzyme, aptly named PET46, from a previously uncultured
deep-sea microorganism. This enzyme possesses several unique features that
make it stand out in the realm of PET-degrading enzymes.
PET46 demonstrates an exceptional ability to degrade both long-chain PET
molecules (polymers) and short-chain PET molecules (oligomers), making it a
continuous and efficient solution for plastic degradation. Unlike its
counterparts, PET46 employs a distinct mechanism for substrate binding,
utilizing a crucial 'lid' composed of 45 amino acids above its active center.
Potential Applications
Beyond its importance for environmental conservation, PET46 shows promise in
various biotechnological applications. Remarkably, PET46 bears a striking
similarity to ferulic acid esterase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down
lignin in plant cell walls. Given the structural similarities between lignin
and PET, the discovery of PET-degrading enzymes in nature could prove
invaluable for composting wood in forest soils and addressing terrestrial
plastic pollution.
What makes PET46 even more intriguing is its thermal stability. It operates
efficiently at temperatures as high as 70°C, surpassing the performance of
known PET-degrading enzymes from bacteria and composting plants at their
respective optimum temperatures.
Conclusion
The fight against plastic pollution is far from over, but this recent
discovery offers a ray of hope. By tapping into the power of deep-sea
microorganisms and unveiling the remarkable PET46 enzyme, scientists have
taken a significant step towards a more sustainable and cleaner future for our
coasts and oceans. As we continue to explore the potential of biotechnology
and innovative solutions, we move closer to a world where plastic pollution is
no longer an insurmountable challenge.
Research Source
The research was carried out as part of the PLASTISEA project, coordinated
by Professor Ute Hentschel Humeida of the GEOMAR Helmholtz Center for Ocean
Research in Kiel. First author Dr. Jennifer Chow from the University of
Hamburg and first author Dr. Pablo Pérez-Garcia, who works as a research
assistant in Schmitz-Streit's group, contributed equally to the study.