Engineered Algae for Plastic Degradation
Location
CoLab, COM 231
Start Date
30-4-2026 12:00 PM
Document Type
Poster
Description
Plastic pollution is a widespread problem worldwide that has become a major threat to our ecosystems. This semester, our goal was to produce a strain of algae that produces MHETase and PETase, enzymes that break down Type-1 plastics. DNA that coded for these proteins was introduced to our alga, Chlorella vulgaris. Clones were selected and screened for the added DNA and protein production to be isolated and tested for plastic degradation. A successful clone was chosen from the candidates and a DNA sample was taken and isolated for proof of the gene that produced our enzymes. These algae clones can be used to break down plastic in our ecosystem and bring plastic pollution to an end.
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Engineered Algae for Plastic Degradation
CoLab, COM 231
Plastic pollution is a widespread problem worldwide that has become a major threat to our ecosystems. This semester, our goal was to produce a strain of algae that produces MHETase and PETase, enzymes that break down Type-1 plastics. DNA that coded for these proteins was introduced to our alga, Chlorella vulgaris. Clones were selected and screened for the added DNA and protein production to be isolated and tested for plastic degradation. A successful clone was chosen from the candidates and a DNA sample was taken and isolated for proof of the gene that produced our enzymes. These algae clones can be used to break down plastic in our ecosystem and bring plastic pollution to an end.
Comments
The faculty mentor for this project was Heather Seitz.