Research into the Plastic Degrading and Assimilating Bacteria Ideonella Sakaiensis

The purpose of this project is to determine the properties of the novel plastic-degrading bacterium, Ideonella Sakaiensis (201-F6). Through my research I hope to design a protocol to test and enhance the bacteria’s degradation capabilities to create a more efficient way to recycle plastics. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the strongest and most abundant plastics in the world today. In 2013 only 4% of the 56 million tons of PET produced was recycled into its environmentally benign monomers (ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid). PET is lightweight, hydrophobic, flexible, and exists as an amorphous or semi-crystalline solid, making it an ideal candidate for manufacturers. Current PET recycling methods use chemical techniques that have proven inefficient, necessitating a better way of disassembling the previously thought to be indestructible polymer.  I. sakaiensis utilizes two highly unique enzymes, PETase and MHETase, which have evolved to break down PET into CO₂ and H₂O. The enzymes are the first of its kind in bacteria and have a high affinity for PET degradation, assimilating the compound for microbial growth. The properties of PETase and MHETase make them perfect subjects for bioremediation and biological fermentation studies to reduce plastic pollution. By understanding how this bacteria evolved, new ways to enhance and express these plastic-degrading genes in other organisms (such as E. coli) can be developed. By using X-ray diffraction and protein crystallography an ideal catalytic site for mutagenesis can be determined and targeted for enhancement to make this system even more potent and viable for plastic recycling.