In-house Research

Overview: Finest Project

Plastic waste has become one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time, with millions of tons accumulating each year in landfills and natural ecosystems. The FINEST project, in collaboration with UFZ (Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research), HZDR (Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf), and HZB (Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin), is tackling this issue by developing enzymatic solutions to break down synthetic polymers. The focus is on enhancing the ability of enzymes to degrade plastics like polyurethane, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride. Additionally, the project aims to address the environmental risks posed by plastic additives such as phthalates.

At HZB, we contribute to the project by applying our expertise in protein structure analysis, utilizing the macromolecular crystallography beamline, and our protein production and characterization lab to optimize plastic-degrading enzymes. These improved enzymes will allow for more efficient plastic waste conversion into useful products, such as building blocks for new materials, microbial biomass for bioenergy, and inert byproducts that are safe for disposal. This research supports sustainable plastic waste management and contributes to the transition to a circular economy.

Overview: Phycolor Project

The PHYCOLOR project is a research initiative led by Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH (HZB) in collaboration with industry partners, aimed at optimizing the production and stability of cyanobacterial protein colorants, specifically phycocyanin and phycoerythrin. These natural pigments are promising alternatives to synthetic dyes, which may pose health risks, and other natural dyes that often lack color vibrancy and stability.

By leveraging genetic engineering, protein production, purification, and characterization, the project seeks to enhance the commercial viability of these pigments for applications in the food industry, solar technology, and scientific research. A key aspect of this work involves using the BESSY II MX beamlines at HZB for advanced structural analysis, helping to refine and improve pigment stability.

Through its innovations, PHYCOLOR aims to enable the widespread use of natural, vibrant, and stable colorants, supporting the transition toward healthier and more sustainable consumer products. The project represents an important step in reducing reliance on synthetic dyes, contributing to a greener and safer future.