Prospects of Synthetic Biology in the Actualization of Green Chemistry and Environmental Solutions
Published: 2024-10-01
Page: 252-274
Issue: 2024 - Volume 7 [Issue 2]
Emmanuel Chimeh Ezeako
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Yemiode Bernard Itam
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria and Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria.
Gloria Oluchukwu Osuagwu
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Chisom Roseline Ogbodo
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Okpanachi Nuhu Oyibo
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Amarachi Njoku Olokor
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Cynthia Doowuese Aondover
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Nnamdi Ginikachukwu Amuzie
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Silas Arubi Ijaja
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Humphrey Sam Samuel
Department of Chemical Sciences Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria.
Fidelis Nnaemeka Chukwuma
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Malachy Chigozie Odo
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria and Department of Biomedical Science, University of Wolverhampton, England, United Kingdom.
Ekene John Nweze
Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu, Nigeria.
Chibuzo Valentine Nwokafor *
Department of Microbiology, University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Synthetic biology (SynBio) is an emerging field of endeavor that uses modular and replaceable biological parts or devices in standard chassis, or whole organisms to generate intended and programmed outputs that can be quantified and optimized until they meet the desired efficiency. As a result, SynBio is becoming increasingly popular for addressing critical global challenges such as the bioremediation of recalcitrant organic and inorganic pollutants in the environments and the reduction in emission of toxic waste from industrial processes. Although synthetic chemistry and the chemical industry have greatly enhanced the quality of life of the human race, they have also caused significant detrimental effects in terms of pollution, toxic waste emissions, and public health endangerment. SynBio technology has now found application in the bioremediation of polluted environments and to actualize previously unfeasible industrial outcomes and green chemistry. This study elucidates the innovative applications of SynBio concepts in the bioremediation of polluted environments, the actualization of eco-friendly industrial operations, and the realization of green chemistry principles. We also explore SynBio-based strategies for minimizing toxic waste emission and energy consumption, while simultaneously enhancing the production of value-added industrial products from renewable feedstocks, industrial wastes, and greenhouse gasses. Several ethical and safety concerns and regulatory framework required to ensure the responsible application of SynBio technology were also reviewed. By unearthing the propitious potential of SynBio in biotechnology, sustainable development, and green chemistry, this study aims to afford insights into the future directions of SynBio technology and its potential impact on various sectors, from industry to environment.
Keywords: Synbiology, renewable feedstocks, green chemistry, bioremediation, sustainable development, genetic engineering, gene editing