Computational Design of High-Performance Plastic-Degrading Enzymes for Sustainable Recycling

Dr. Georg Künze, Universität Leipzig

The discovery and engineering of plastic-degrading enzymes offer a promising route toward sustainable and eco-friendly recycling technologies. To advance this transformation, my research focuses on developing highly efficient biocatalysts capable of depolymerizing bio-based plastics. In particular, we have applied computational protein design, augmented by artificial intelligence, to create advanced polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-degrading enzymes with exceptional thermostability, long-term activity, and the ability to fully degrade post-consumer PET within 24 hours. These efforts demonstrate how the integration of predictive design and high-throughput experimentation can accelerate the development of next-generation plastic hydrolases. Looking ahead, the continued evolution of such approaches will enable efficient enzymatic recycling of a broader range of bio-based plastics, supporting a circular and sustainable materials economy.