Scientists sequenced the complete genetic code of a soil bacterium called Bacillus licheniformis strain KNU11. This bacterium produces powerful enzymes and can break down pollutants, making it useful for cleaning up environmental contamination and promoting plant growth. The genetic blueprint revealed over 4,000 genes that enable these beneficial capabilities.
Researchers tested 64 types of mushroom strains to find which grows the strongest mycelial mats for making eco-friendly materials to replace plastic and other fossil fuel products. They discovered that Ganoderma lucidum, a medicinal mushroom, produces especially thick and strong mycelium that can be grown at large scales. By using the right nutrients like glycerol and skim milk, they were able to grow large sheets of mushroom material that could potentially be used for packaging, furniture, and other products instead of traditional plastics.
Scientists discovered a bacterium called Gordonia that can break down nitrile rubber, a common plastic used in gloves and seals. The bacterium produces a special enzyme that cuts the polymer chains into smaller pieces. This finding could lead to new methods for recycling rubber waste instead of burning it, addressing a growing environmental problem as millions of tons of rubber products are discarded each year.
Honey contains many beneficial microorganisms that can survive its harsh environment of high sugar and low pH. These microorganisms have the ability to produce useful compounds like lactic acid, citric acid, and other valuable substances used in food, medicine, and industry. Scientists believe these honey-derived microbes have significant potential for industrial applications but need more research to fully unlock their benefits.
This research shows how leftover mushroom growing material (SMS) can be recycled into a useful enzyme called laccase to make jute fabric softer and lighter by removing tough lignin components. Instead of using harsh chemicals, the scientists used mild conditions and natural enzymes to process jute waste sustainably. From just one bag of mushroom waste, they could treat an area of fabric equivalent to 2000 square meters, making this an economically attractive solution for both mushroom and textile waste management.
Scientists studied soil fungi from California grasslands to find the best strains for producing biofuels and health supplements. They discovered that Mortierella fungi are especially good at accumulating oils and producing beneficial compounds like arachidonic acid. Three specific fungal strains stood out as having the highest oil content and best fatty acid profiles, making them promising candidates for industrial production of sustainable fuels and nutritional supplements.
Scientists discovered that a protein called PRMT5 controls how much cellulase enzyme the medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum produces. When PRMT5 activates a specific gene called eg2 through a molecular modification of histone proteins, the mushroom produces more cellulase. This enzyme is valuable for breaking down plant waste into useful sugars for industrial and bioenergy applications. This research could help develop better enzyme-producing strains for industries that need cellulase.