Research project
Breaking the Unbreakable: Computational and Biochemical Identification of Polyethylene-Degrading Enzymes
Engineering an efficient microbial enzymatic polyethylene degradation pathway via an innovative combination of biochemistry and computational biology tools for enzyme discovery and characterization.
- Duration
- 2025 - 2026
- Contact
- Han de Winde
- Funding
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NWO ENW-XS
- Partners
Molecular and Industrial Biotechnology, IBL
This project aims to unravel and engineer a complete enzymatic degradation pathway for polyethylene (PE), the world’s most produced yet most recalcitrant plastic. While some PE-degrading microbes and microbial communities have been identified, no specific enzymes have been confirmed. Using advanced computational protein prediction and biochemical identification, we will identify and validate enzymes involved in the stepwise breakdown of PE. This innovating approach enables the selection of novel enzymes from diverse microorganisms to design an efficient, engineered pathway. The outcome will lay the molecular foundation for enzymatic PE recycling, advancing a more sustainable circular carbon economy.