Boston, Massachusetts – Researchers in Boston, Massachusetts have made significant strides in developing a more sustainable approach to plastic production. By manipulating enzymes in E. coli bacteria, they were able to create polymers that are not only biodegradable but also highly customizable in terms of chemical composition and properties.
The key to this breakthrough lies in the manipulation of genes responsible for the production of lactic acid, a common component in many polymers. By knocking out the gene that produces lactic acid, researchers were able to significantly reduce its presence in the polymer. Through various experiments, they were able to demonstrate the ability to create polymers from a mixture of different amino acid monomers, as well as incorporating non-amino acids into the mix.
This level of flexibility in chemical composition allows for a wide range of properties to be tuned in the resulting plastic. Moreover, the use of enzymes in forming bonds ensures that the resulting polymer will be biodegradable, addressing one of the key environmental concerns associated with traditional plastics.
However, there are challenges to overcome. The process still lacks complete control over the incorporation of chemicals into the polymer, with enzymes sometimes incorporating random chemicals from the cell’s metabolism. Additionally, the purification process to separate the polymer from other cell components is laborious, and production remains slow compared to industrial standards.
While the system is not yet ready for large-scale production, the research showcases the potential of bio-based manufacturing in revolutionizing the plastics industry. By leveraging biological processes, researchers could pave the way for a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to plastic production in the future.
The study, published in Nature Chemical Biology, highlights the exciting developments in sustainable plastic production, opening up new possibilities for a greener future.