Honors College Theses

Characterization of Poly(aspartic acid) Hydrolases PahZ1 from Pedobacter, Brevifollis gellanilyticus and Erythrobacter insulae

Publication Date

2023

Major

Biochemistry (B.S.)

Document Type and Release Option

Thesis (open access)

Faculty Mentor

Mitch Weiland

Abstract

In recent years, water-soluble polymers, such as poly(carboxylates), have gained environmental concern because they are non-biodegradable yet are used in a variety of consumer products to include detergents and superabsorbent materials present in diapers and feminine hygiene products. Poly (aspartic acid) (PAA) is a green alternative biodegradable polymer and can be enzymatically degraded. This project aims to characterize PAA biodegradation enzymes. Furthermore, the project delves into the intriguing area of PAA-DNA interactions, specifically with Pedobacter sp. KP-2 PahZ1. This exploration aims to uncover the physiological relevance of these interactions and their potential implications for the evolution of PAA biodegradation enzymes. In addition to these aspects, the project extends its scope to include the characterization of PahZ1 homologs from different bacterial species, including Brevifollis gellanilyticus and Erythrobacter insulae. This investigation seeks to determine if these homologs possess poly(aspartic acid) hydrolase activity, thus broadening our understanding of PAA degradation in various microbial environments.

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