Justification for the research and expected impacts
Through rearing of poultry and cattle, Nigeria generates hundreds of metric tonnes of feathers and hooves which contain keratins that are recalcitrant to biodegradation; thereby fuelling pollution of air, soil and water through improper disposal. However, these keratins are rich in proteins, which can be harnessed as sources of amino acids through eco-friendly valorization by keratinolytic microorganisms that are capable of innovative degradation of keratins. This brings about value-addition through bioconversion to valuable products within the paradigm of circular bioeconomy. In our previous studies, we documented some potent local microbial strains that efficiently degraded keratins. The aim of this research is to valorize poultry feather and cow hoof using microorganisms to produce protein-rich keratin hydrolysates (PROKEH) as biofertilizer and amino-acid supplements in agriculture. The project is expected to be impactful on crop production, promotion of green technology in converting wastes to useful materials, and mitigation of improper disposal of keratinous wastes among others.
