Genetically modified bacteria degrade plastics in saltwater
What?- Marine bacterium genetically modified to break down polyethene terephthalate (PET) plastic which contributes to microplastic pollution in the oceans
Which organism?- Vibrio natriegens bacterium reproduces quickly and thrives in saltwater-Enzymes from another bacterium, Ideonella sakaiensis, were incorporated into Vibrio natriegens to break down PET Vibrio natriegens produced enzymes on the surface of its cells to break down PET in saltwater at room temperature
Three significant hurdles remain: incorporating the DNA into Vibrio natriegens genome, modifying it to feed on byproducts and produce a desirable end product
Collaboration with industry groups to determine marketable molecules is possible
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