Contribution in Methodology

While the methodology and techniques using the silkworm as the host for synthetic biology experiments have been well-established in the scientific community, our project demonstrates creativity and innovation by constructing recombinant gene expression vectors carrying the two specific plastic-degrading enzymes, Fast-PETase and MHETase, into silkworm embryos to create corresponding transgenic individuals that secrete transgenic cocoons.

Through our background research, especially on previous iGEM projects, we also noticed that there are not many cases involving the silkworm as the host organism. We believe and hope that our project can provide a relatively unique option for future iGEM teams when considering the host organism, and somehow fills this gap for the iGEM community.

Regarding the improvement, replication, and development of our current project, we can recognize various potential directions. For instance, future teams may choose a different strain of domesticated silkworms to conduct the experiment; also, since we have observed and measured the release dynamics of Fast-PETase and MHETase, concentration on this with a further exploration of improving the stability of the plastic-degrading enzymes may be another meaningful perspective.

Contribution in Outcomes

In this project, we successfully created individuals of a new strain of silkworms that secreted cocoons expressing plastic-degrading enzymes and were later proved to be effective in PET plastics degradation. This is a significant basis for our long-term goal of the large-scale cultivation of this new silkworm strain and production of plastic-degrading silk products, which provides a creative and constructive approach for PET biodegradation research.

Upon achieving our long-term goal, we will not only enhance the economic benefits of silkworm farming by introducing a new type of silkworm strain with a plastic-degradation function and eco-friendly nature, but also further benefit sustainability. The byproducts of the PET plastics degradation, TPA, MHET, and EG, can be recycled and reused. These byproducts are also the raw materials for synthesizing PET, with EG also being used as an antifreeze in automobiles. This would enable the establishment of a sustainable closed-loop recycling system, from waste PET to new PET.

Contribution in Team Management and Organization

Our team has been crossing regional, national, and cultural boundaries to achieve collaboration despite geographical and time differences, which brought significant challenges to our team management and organization. Many of our meetings, task assignments, and collaborations were conducted online. The visual design work, in particular, was mostly completed through online cooperation, where we fully utilized the convenience and functionality of cloud-based workspaces. Our student leadership was designed and implemented in an effective structure, with three captains handling the project overall and leaders for each functional group to be in charge of specific tasks. Using Zoom's breakout rooms feature as a foundation, the groups (except for wet labs) were able to work simultaneously online and communicate effectively in real time.

The diversity, inclusivity, and management experience of our team can serve as a reference for future iGEM teams, giving them greater flexibility in selecting team members and the scope of activities.