Identification of Polyethylene-binding Proteins/Peptides and their applications for Nano/Micro plastic Analysis

Kurzbezeichnung

Nano and Micro plastic Analysis

Einrichtung Vetmeduni

VetCore

Art der Forschung

Angewandte Forschung

Forschungsschwerpunkt

Innovative Diagnostik und Analytik

Abstract

Nano- and microplastics pose a major environmental concern due to their widespread presence as pollutants. They can be found in Vietnams coastal regions and are emerging as a significant threat to environment and human health. This is due to their potential as both direct and indirect effects on living organisms. Exposure to microplastics can lead to various health issues, particularly in communities that heavily rely on seafood, such as fishing populations where ingestion of microplastics is most prevalent like in Vietnam. Therefore, developing standardized methods for monitoring the occurrence, distribution, and movement of nano/microplastics in the environment is crucial for southeast Asian countries. The aim of this project is to identify novel polyethylene-binding peptides/proteins (PBPs) from cytoplasmic soluble proteins of E. coli. The novel idea behind this is to use these proteins/peptides to act as capture agents to immobilize plastics on various surfaces. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) will be used for screening micro- and nanoplastic-binding proteins or peptides, while nano HPLC tandem mass spectrometry will be employed for the identification of polyethylene-binding proteins or peptides. These peptides will be produced using recombinant technology and will be then fused to silica surfaces. Through genetic engineering, PBPs can be fused with other biomolecules, creating bi-functional linkers with both plastic-binding and additional desired properties. This fusion protein, which combines polyethylene- and silica-binding capabilities, could serve as an innovative water treatment agent, efficiently targeting nano-sized plastics and other contaminants in a stable and cost-effective manner. Additionally, the SiO2-PE complex will be incorporated into biosensors and bioassays for further applications.