Heterologous expression and characterization of synthetic polyester-degrading cutinases from <i>Fusarium</i> spp. in <i>Aspergillus niger</i>

Cutinases are promising enzymes for a spectrum of applications due to their substrate promiscuity toward both natural and synthetic polymers. This makes them strong candidates for the development of sustainable solutions to battle environmental pollution. Therefore, the successful production and characterization of novel cutinases is fundamental for understanding their mechanisms and potential applications. In this study, we have identified, produced, and characterized two cutinases from different <i>Fusarium</i> species using a multicopy integration system in <i>Aspergillus niger</i>. Structural characteristics and <i>in vivo</i> and <i>in vitro</i> enzyme activity provide a unique insight into the polyester-degrading activity of these enzymes and how they can contribute to more sustainable solutions to our current waste management and pollution challenges.