US20260022227
2026-01-22
Chemistry; metallurgy
C08J11/105
The patent application describes a novel method for degrading plastic by utilizing enzymes derived from insects in the order Lepidoptera. These enzymes are either used in their natural form or as engineered variants that are structurally and functionally distinct. The method leverages the unique properties of eukaryotic enzymes, which offer advantages such as higher stability, efficiency, and specificity compared to prokaryotic enzymes. This approach aims to address the environmental challenge of plastic waste accumulation by providing a more sustainable and effective degradation process.
Plastic waste, especially from non-biodegradable petrochemical-based plastics, poses a significant environmental problem. Traditional disposal methods such as burning or landfilling are either harmful or inefficient. The enzymatic breakdown of plastics using Lepidoptera-derived enzymes represents a promising alternative. These enzymes, expressed by insects like the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella, have been identified as capable of degrading various plastics, including polyethylene and polystyrene, under suitable conditions.
The invention includes recombinant organisms or cells that express these plastic-degrading enzymes. By employing recombinant nucleic acid methodologies, these cells can be engineered to produce enzymes with optimal properties for plastic degradation. The invention also explores the use of enzymatically active fragments or domains, and engineered variants that maintain a high degree of sequence identity to native proteins. The enzymes can target a range of plastics, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polylactic acid (PLA).
This method has potential applications in various environmental, commercial, and industrial settings. By expressing these enzymes in different organisms, such as yeast or bacteria, it is possible to tailor the degradation process to specific types of plastic waste. The enzymes' ability to function under diverse conditions makes them suitable for large-scale applications, potentially transforming the way plastic waste is managed and contributing to a reduction in environmental pollution.
The use of Lepidoptera-derived enzymes offers several advantages over traditional plastic degradation methods. These enzymes are more stable and efficient, with a longer lifespan and lower toxicity. They also exhibit enhanced substrate recognition and adaptability to changing environments. By providing a more predictable and reliable solution for plastic degradation, this method could significantly reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste, offering a more sustainable alternative to current disposal practices.