Genomic Molecular Characterization of Polymer-Degrading Enzymes in Aspergillus salvadorensis from Tropical Ecosystems (2025-2026)

The research presents the finding and functional validation of an enzyme system with hydrolytic capacity within the genome of a native strain identified as Aspergillus salvadorensis, especially highlighting its potential to degrade synthetic polyesters. Through bioinformatics tools, it was possible to identify key open reading frames, specifically ORF18 and ORF2, which encode catalytic domains belonging to the superfamily of α/β hydrolases. These domains are characterized by the presence of the conserved motif GTSAG, associated with an active site that includes the classical catalytic triad formed by serine, histidine and aspartic acid. The structural arrangement of this active site suggests high accessibility, which favors its interaction with solid and highly complex substrates, such as plastic polymers. From an experimental point of view, the combined effect of a chemical pretreatment with 10% hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) together with the biological activity of the fungus was evaluated. The results showed, at a macroscopic level, the formation of well-defined hydrolysis halos in the contact area between the fungus and the plastic material. Likewise, the kinetic analysis showed a sigmoid-type degradation pattern, characterized by an initial colonization phase of approximately three days, followed by a notable acceleration in degradation. The synergy between the previous oxidation of the material and the enzymatic action of the fungus allowed to achieve a mass loss of more than 30% in a period of 14 days, which contrasts markedly with the scarce 5% observed in the samples that did not receive pretreatment. Together, these findings demonstrate that A. salvadorensis has a highly efficient natural biotechnological system, which positions it as a promising alternative for the development of innovative bioremediation strategies aimed at the treatment of plastic waste.