Raising environmental awareness through applied biochemistry laboratory experiments.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Environmental Science
• Applied Biotechnology

Background:

• Environmental pollution poses significant threats, necessitating scientific solutions.
• Science education should highlight chemistry's role in addressing real-world environmental issues.
• Organic dyes are common pollutants requiring effective remediation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess an undergraduate biochemistry laboratory experiment focused on environmental remediation.
• To demonstrate the application of peroxidase enzymes in degrading organic dyes as model pollutants.
• To enhance students' understanding of environmental issues and biochemistry concepts through hands-on application.

Main Methods:

• A novel biochemistry laboratory experiment was designed using peroxidase enzymes.
• Students investigated the degradation of organic dyes in simulated wastewater.
• Key factors influencing enzyme activity (pH, temperature, concentration, denaturants) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The experiment successfully demonstrated the use of peroxidase enzymes for wastewater remediation.
• Students gained practical experience with enzyme kinetics and environmental applications.
• Student surveys indicated increased environmental awareness and appreciation for chemistry's problem-solving capabilities.

Conclusions:

• The developed laboratory experiment effectively integrates environmental awareness with core biochemistry principles.
• Enzyme-based wastewater treatment is a viable application of biotechnology.
• This inquiry-guided experiment is suitable for introductory biochemistry courses.