FabricNano’s cell-free biotech set to eliminate microplastics

“The UK startup is immobilising proteins for everything from detergent to carbon capture.

When researchers revealed the results of a study on the prevalence of microplastics in human placentas earlier this year, the findings were profoundly disturbing. Researchers analysed 62 placental tissue samples — and found microplastics in all of them. 

In the words of the lead author of the study, “If we are seeing effects on placentas, then all mammalian life on this planet could be impacted.”

The world desperately needs to quit its addiction to fossil-based fuels and other fossil-based chemicals, for the sake of both planetary and human health (which are inextricably linked). This is where synthetic biology, or synbio, could have a significant part to play. 

Imagine a world where we could replace every single harmful synthetic chemical and fossil-based plastic with entirely natural and biodegradable compounds. This would translate to less loss of biodiversity, fewer greenhouse gas emissions — and fewer microplastics floating around in our bloodstreams. Companies like FabricNano are trying to make this a reality.”