Potential for Increasing Laccase Activity in White-rot Fungi Pleurotus ostreatus in Aquatic Cultivation : for Use in Bioremediation

Sammanfattning

This study investigates the enhancement of laccase activity in Pleurotus ostreatus, a white-rot fungus, to improve bioremediation of wastewater, addressing the inefficiency of conventional wastewater treatment plants in removing micropollutants. Anthropogenic stress and climate change has intensified environmental pollution and water scarcity, making effective and sustainable treatment methods essential. Laccase is an enzyme with the capability of breaking down a variety of micropollutants, but face challenges in activity decline. This study evaluated the addition of eight substances on laccase activity when pellets of P. ostreatus was grown in water. The results demonstrated that apple pomace and coffee grounds significantly increased laccase activity, with apple pomace reaching 98.1 units per litre (U/L) and coffee grounds 67.7 U/L. These organic wastes, rich in nutrients and potential enzyme inducers, not only boost enzyme production but also adhere to circular economy principles by repurposing waste into valuable resources. The findings suggest a sustainable and cost-effective alternative for improving wastewater treatment and highlight the need for further research to optimize substrate conditions and explore practical applications in bioremediation.