Lignocellulose biotechnology: issues of biocoversion and enzyme production

Lignocellulose biotechnology: issues of biocoversion and enzyme production

December 2003 | Howard R.L.¹, Abotsi E², Jansen van Rensburg E.L.¹ and Howard S.³
This review discusses the potential of lignocellulose biotechnology, focusing on bioconversion and enzyme production. Lignocellulose, a major component of plant materials, is a valuable substrate for biotechnological applications. However, its conversion into useful products is hindered by high enzyme costs. The review highlights the economic potential of converting lignocellulosic waste into value-added products such as biofuels, chemicals, and animal feeds. It also discusses modern approaches to reduce enzyme costs and improve the efficiency of lignocellulose bioprocessing. Lignocellulose consists of lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose, which are complex to break down. Various bioprocessing methods, including solid-state fermentation (SSF), are explored as potential solutions for developing countries. SSF is noted for its lower capital and operational costs, making it suitable for lignocellulose-based biotechnology. The review also discusses the role of microorganisms, particularly fungi and bacteria, in lignocellulose degradation and enzyme production. Key enzymes involved in lignocellulose biotechnology include cellulases, hemicellulases, and lignases, which have applications in various industries. The review emphasizes the need for enzyme cost reduction through strain improvement, enzyme engineering, and the use of novel organisms. It also highlights the importance of understanding the structure and function of lignocellulolytic enzymes to improve their efficiency and applicability. The review concludes that lignocellulose biotechnology holds significant potential for sustainable development, particularly in developing countries. By utilizing lignocellulosic waste, it can contribute to economic growth, environmental protection, and the efficient use of renewable resources. The development of cost-effective and efficient bioprocessing technologies is crucial for the commercialization of lignocellulose-based bioproducts.This review discusses the potential of lignocellulose biotechnology, focusing on bioconversion and enzyme production. Lignocellulose, a major component of plant materials, is a valuable substrate for biotechnological applications. However, its conversion into useful products is hindered by high enzyme costs. The review highlights the economic potential of converting lignocellulosic waste into value-added products such as biofuels, chemicals, and animal feeds. It also discusses modern approaches to reduce enzyme costs and improve the efficiency of lignocellulose bioprocessing. Lignocellulose consists of lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose, which are complex to break down. Various bioprocessing methods, including solid-state fermentation (SSF), are explored as potential solutions for developing countries. SSF is noted for its lower capital and operational costs, making it suitable for lignocellulose-based biotechnology. The review also discusses the role of microorganisms, particularly fungi and bacteria, in lignocellulose degradation and enzyme production. Key enzymes involved in lignocellulose biotechnology include cellulases, hemicellulases, and lignases, which have applications in various industries. The review emphasizes the need for enzyme cost reduction through strain improvement, enzyme engineering, and the use of novel organisms. It also highlights the importance of understanding the structure and function of lignocellulolytic enzymes to improve their efficiency and applicability. The review concludes that lignocellulose biotechnology holds significant potential for sustainable development, particularly in developing countries. By utilizing lignocellulosic waste, it can contribute to economic growth, environmental protection, and the efficient use of renewable resources. The development of cost-effective and efficient bioprocessing technologies is crucial for the commercialization of lignocellulose-based bioproducts.
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Understanding Lignocellulose biotechnology%3A issues of bioconversion and enzyme production