Student Scholars Journal

Student Scholars Journal

Synthetic Biology for Plastic Degradation: Engineering Microorganisms for Environmental Remediation

By Ethan Brown
Published May 19, 2025 • Pages 30-55

Abstract

Plastic pollution persists for centuries in the environment, with conventional degradation methods proving insufficient for addressing the global crisis. This synthetic biology study engineers Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas putida bacteria to express enhanced plastic-degrading enzymes including PETase, MHETase, and novel cutinases. Through directed evolution and rational protein design, we achieved 340% improvement in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) degradation rates compared to wild-type enzymes. Engineered bacteria successfully degraded 89% of PET plastic films within 14 days under controlled conditions, producing environmentally benign metabolites. Safety assessments included containment mechanisms and risk evaluation for environmental release. The research provides sustainable biotechnological solutions for plastic waste management and demonstrates the potential of synthetic biology in environmental remediation.

Publication Information

Journal Details

Journal:Student Scholars Journal
Volume:2
Issue:2
Pages:30-55
Year:2025

Publication Timeline

Received:April 19, 2025
Revised:May 2, 2025
Accepted:May 9, 2025
Published:May 19, 2025

Article Metrics

Article ID:ssj-2025-v2i2-002
Keywords:6 keywords
Subject Areas:3 areas
Authors:1 authors

Author Information

EB
Ethan BrownCorresponding
Lynbrook High School, California
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