Background-Microplastic pollution
Plastic microbeads (≤5 mm), commonly made of polyethylene or polypropylene, are extensively used in rinse-off cosmetics as exfoliants. During use, they enter waterways due to their small size and buoyancy, evading wastewater treatment systems. These particles accumulate in aquatic environments, adsorb toxins, and are ingested by marine organisms, leading to bioaccumulation in the food chain and posing risks to the ecosystem and human health.
Our Solution-PHA microbeads
We propose biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) microbeads as a sustainable alternative. Using synthetic biology, we engineered E. coli to produce size-tunable PHA particles via a modular system:
- Core biosynthesis (phaCAB operon) for high-yield PHA synthesis
- Size regulation (PhaP/ADF3 proteins) to control granule uniformity
- Temporal control (Different promoters) to separate synthesis and assembly phases, optimizing efficiency and functionality.
Our Team-PHAsco
PHAsco leverages synthetic biology and microbial engineering to address plastic pollution. We focus on developing customizable, biodegradable PHA-based materials with high consistency, aiming to replace microplastics in cosmetics while promoting circular bioeconomy practices.
