TIDE: Transforming microalgae in plastic-Degrading vehicles that decontaminate polluted waters

The accumulation of non-degradable plastic in the environment is a global pollution issue.  Microalgae have emerged as cost-effective, natural bio-decontaminants capable of absorbing and eliminating heavy metals, salinity, and pesticides while also mitigating carbon emission. Enzymes that degrade one of the most common forms of plastic, poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), into non-toxic compounds have been identified in bacteria.

This research project will use genetic engineering to attach highly efficient plastic-degrading enzymes to the surface of the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. These newly acquired traits will transform microalgae into natural, renewable decontaminants capable of degrading plastic into non-toxic compounds.