Biochemical studies of recombinant PAZymes produced by Aspergillus oryzae engineered strain

• Grant number: 24/03892-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: May 01, 2024
• End date: April 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Biochemistry of Microorganisms
• Principal Investigator: André Ricardo de Lima Damasio
• Grantee: Gabriel Bacoccina Motta
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biologia (IB). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/05731-2 - BEYOND: establishing a fungal cell factory for recombinant protein production, AP.TEM

Abstract

This scientific project aims to produce recombinant enzymes, specifically cutinases, in engineered strains of Aspergillus oryzae, with the goal of degrading plastics such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate). Cutinases are enzymes capable of catalyzing the degradation of different types of plastics, making them essential for the development of effective plastic recycling methods. The production of recombinant cutinases in A. oryzae, a filamentous fungus, offers several advantages compared to production in bacteria or yeasts, including the ability for large-scale production and the ease of genetic manipulation of this extensively studied fungal species. The success of this project could lead to significant advancements in plastic recycling, contributing to the reduction of environmental impact associated with plastic waste accumulation. The project is part of the thematic BEYOND initiative, which also aims to produce alternative fungal proteins and CAZymes. (AU)