PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are synthetic compounds that are difficult to break down and have been linked to severe health problems like cancer, hormonal imbalances, reproductive issues, and developmental issues in children. These substances can be found in everyday items, including nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, and food packaging. In an effort to reduce the environmental and health impacts of these pollutants, Myconaut, a Michigan-based biotech startup, has been awarded a $275,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. The funding will go towards the company’s research into utilizing fungi to decompose PFAS without the need for hazardous chemicals.
“It’s everywhere,” explained Ryan Iacovacci, co-founder of Myconaut, in an interview with WZMP 19 News. “It’s another cancer-causing pollutant in our environment, and we got to figure out a way to clean this up so that our kids don’t have to deal with this kind of problem. We got to figure out how to get it out of our bodies, how to get it out of the environment, how to break it down. Fungi have this secret, and they know how to do it. Been around for two and a half billion years.”
Over the past decade, researchers have recognized the remarkable potential of fungi for degrading plastics. Certain fungi species produce potent enzymes that can break down the long molecular chains of plastics into simpler, less harmful compounds. This fantastic ability has inspired Myconaut, who plan to conduct a first-ever investigation to determine whether these enzymes can also degrade PFAS compounds just as effectively.
The grant will support the project’s proof of concept, contribute to the creation of an AI-driven remediation tool, and kickstart the campaign’s initial fundraising efforts.
“This is a big moment for Myconaut, as this grant will allow us to continue to research how to address contaminants and pursue solutions that will positively impact future generations,” states Iacovacci. “We believe our research-driven biological products hold the potential to contribute to planetary health and soil pollution remediation on a global scale, providing significant societal value. We are humbled about this additional validation and support, and eager to continue on the path we’ve been on since our founding in 2022.”
