What potential application is being studied for the enzymes that break down beeswax lipids in G. mellonella?
Answer
Degrading polyethylene pollutants
The enzymes synthesized by *Galleria mellonella* that allow it to break down the complex lipids found within beeswax—a substance generally indigestible by most other insects—have captured significant scientific interest beyond pest control. Researchers are intensely studying these specific enzymatic capabilities for a potentially groundbreaking environmental application: their ability to degrade polyethylene, which is recognized as one of the most persistent types of human-made pollutants.
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