Chemical Synthesis of the Mirror-Image Fast-PETase by the Enzyme-Cleavable Solubilizing-Tag Strategy.

Area of Science:

• Biocatalysis
• Enzyme Engineering
• Plastic Degradation

Background:

• Mirror-image enzymes offer enhanced stability and low immunogenicity for biocatalysis.
• Existing mirror-image PET hydrolases require high temperatures, limiting practical applications.
• Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) plastic pollution is a significant global environmental challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To chemically synthesize a novel mirror-image PET-degrading enzyme, D-Fast-PETase.
• To evaluate the PET degradation efficiency of D-Fast-PETase at ambient temperatures.
• To establish a new biocatalytic tool for addressing plastic pollution and microplastic concerns.

Main Methods:

• Total chemical synthesis of a 271-residue mirror-image enzyme (D-Fast-PETase) using an enzyme-cleavable solubilizing tag.
• Comparative kinetic analysis of D-Fast-PETase against D-ICCG.
• Assessment of PET degradation at 37°C.

Main Results:

• Successful chemical synthesis of D-Fast-PETase.
• D-Fast-PETase demonstrated a ~20-fold increase in PET degradation efficiency compared to D-ICCG within 24 hours at 37°C.
• The enzyme is effective at a practical temperature, broadening its application potential.

Conclusions:

• D-Fast-PETase is a highly efficient mirror-image enzyme for PET degradation at ambient temperatures.
• This engineered enzyme presents a viable biocatalytic solution for plastic waste management.
• The findings contribute to the development of strategies for mitigating plastic pollution and microplastic-associated health risks.