Fusion Protein-Based Systems for Environmental Remediation

The present inventive concept discloses novel applications of fusion protein technology, originally developed for cancer treatment, to address pressing environmental issues, such as industrial wastewater treatment, soil pollution remediation, and air quality monitoring.

The original patent disclosed a pharmaceutical composition for cancer treatment, comprising a fusion protein dimer including IL-2 and CD80 proteins, along with an anticancer drug. However, the environmental sector faces significant challenges in removing pollutants from wastewater, soil, and air, which the original patent did not address. The present inventive concept bridges this gap by applying the core fusion protein technology to develop innovative solutions for environmental remediation.

The new inventive concept encompasses systems, methods, and devices that utilize the fusion protein dimer, comprising IL-2 and CD80 proteins or their variants, to target and remove pollutants from wastewater, soil, and air. For instance, the system for treating industrial wastewater employs the fusion protein dimer to bind and neutralize pollutants, allowing for efficient removal and recycling of the treated water. Similarly, the method for reducing environmental pollutants in soil involves administering the pharmaceutical composition to the contaminated soil, where the fusion protein dimer facilitates the degradation of pollutants. The device for detecting water contaminants utilizes the fusion protein dimer as a biosensor to detect changes in the presence of pollutants, enabling real-time monitoring and swift response.

The new claims introduce a novel application of the fusion protein technology, shifting the focus from cancer treatment to environmental remediation. This inventive step lies in the recognition that the fusion protein dimer's binding properties can be leveraged to target and remove pollutants from various environmental sources, rather than solely for therapeutic purposes.

Alternative embodiments may include the use of different fusion protein dimers, varying the ratio of IL-2 to CD80 proteins, or incorporating additional components to enhance the system's efficiency. Variations may also involve adapting the system for specific types of pollutants or environmental matrices, such as oil spills or agricultural runoff.

The present inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the environmental sector, with applications in wastewater treatment, soil remediation, and air quality monitoring. The market for environmental remediation technologies is substantial, driven by increasing concerns over climate change, pollution, and public health. The fusion protein-based systems offer a unique, innovative solution that can be integrated into existing infrastructure, providing a competitive edge in the market.