Innovation in Science | Our College of Life Sciences Unveils Microalgae’s Adaptation and Remediation Potential Under 6PPD Pollution
News 2025-04-09
【Research Background】
The tire antioxidant 6PPD (N-(1.3-Dimethylbutyl)-N’-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine), extensively released into aquatic environments through tire wear, poses potential threats to aquatic organisms. For the first time, the team led by Professor Haiying Wang and Associate Professor Xin Zhang from our College of Life Sciences systematically investigated the physiological and genetic response mechanisms of Chlorella pyrenoidosa to this emerging pollutant.
【Key Findings】
Dynamic Growth Phase Responses
Inhibition Phase: Initial 6PPD exposure significantly suppresses nitrogen metabolism by blocking inorganic nitrogen uptake through hydrogen bonds and π-cation interactions with the nitrate transporter NRT 2.1.
Recovery Phase: As pollutant concentrations decrease, algal cells initiate metabolic reprogramming, upregulating DNA repair, photosynthesis, and carbon metabolism genes to achieve compensatory biomass growth.
Stimulation Phase: Activated adaptive mechanisms result in higher growth rates and stress resistance.
Molecular Mechanism Insights
Molecular docking models of 6PPD with NRT 2.1 protein reveal its toxic targets.
Transcriptome analysis shows enhanced energy conversion efficiency and adjusted amino acid synthesis pathways, enabling the transition from stress to adaptation.
【Application Value】
Environmental Monitoring: Chlorella pyrenoidosa’s sensitivity to 6PPD makes it a potential bioindicator for water pollution.
Bioremediation: Its unique adaptation mechanisms demonstrate feasibility for microalgae-based 6PPD pollution treatment, providing scientific evidence for low-cost, sustainable ecological remediation technologies.
Risk Assessment: Findings support environmental risk assessment of 6PPD, aiding policy formulation and pollution control.
【Research Support】
This study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31901181), Wuhan Knowledge Innovation Special Project (2023020201020464), and the Academic Innovation Team Fund of South-Central Minzu University (XTZ24023).
【Collaboration Prospects】
We look forward to partnering with environmental technology enterprises and research institutions to advance the industrial application of microalgae bioremediation technologies, promoting green sustainable development.
Contact Us: Explore research details and collaboration opportunities by visiting [our college’s website] or contacting the research team.
