Synthetic Remediation Biology: Asgard Detoxification of Synthetic Firefighting Foam for Environmental Sustainability
Abstract
Synthetic firefighting foam, especially aqueous film forming foams (AFFF), contain toxic perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). These perfluoroalkyl toxins result in liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, high cholesterol, obesity, hormone suppression and cancer. This project uses synthetic biology and synthetic enzymology means to address the prevalent and escalating problem of AFFF toxification of the environment. Using directed evolution methologies, we endeavor to engineer novel enzymes derived from Asgards, a group of ancient microorganisms that are a link between simple prokaryotes and complex eukaryotes, to detoxify PFOA and PFOS within firefighting foam. We propose to employ downstream bioremediation strategies by engineering pathways featuring evolved AFFF-detoxifying enzymes (ADE) into freshwater organism chassis like Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (where molecular toolkits are available). Subsequent whole-ecosystem approaches can be envisioned with the co-deployment of ADE (along with engineered freshwater organisms) and choice biosorption flora (such as plants and fungi) at sites of concern (air fields, etc.). Through this proposal, we seek to maintain Planetary Health by providing biological solutions to anthropogenic activities in the aerospace industry.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 07, 2021
- Source ID
- FA23862014040
Entities
People
- Wen Shan Yew
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- National University of Singapore
- United States Air Force