The Effective Biodegradation of Poly(ε-caprolactone) by Engineered Yeast Yarrowia lipolytica Producing Lipase B

Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) is a biodegradable aliphatic polyester with applications in many areas. Lipase B from Moesziomyces antarcticus (CALB, previously known as Candida antarctica lipase B) is a well-characterize enzyme capable of hydrolysing several polyesters. In this study, the codon-optimized gene encoding CALB was cloned into the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica to enhance its natural capabilities toward polyesters biodegradation. PCL films biodegradation was conducted directly in the medium using the engineered yeast at 28 °C. Process optimization employing baffled flasks significantly improved degradation efficiency and reduced time to 24 h. This study showed that the engineered yeast Y. lipolytica is a promising host for polyester biodegradation.