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Updated: Feb 23, 2026
Techniques for the Evolution of Robust Pentose-fermenting Yeast for Bioconversion of Lignocellulose to Ethanol
Published on: October 24, 2016
Retooling microorganisms for the fermentative production of alcohols
Helen S Toogood1, Nigel S Scrutton1
1Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester M1 7DN, UK.
Abstract:
Bioengineering and synthetic biology approaches have revolutionised the field of biotechnology, enabling the introduction of non-native and de novo pathways for biofuels production. This 'retooling' of microorganisms is also applied to the utilisation of mixed carbon components derived from lignocellulosic biomass, a major technical barrier for the development of economically viable fermentations. This review will discuss recent advances in microorganism engineering for efficient production of alcohols from waste biomass. These advances span the introduction of new pathways to alcohols, host modifications for more cost-effective utilisation of lignocellulosic waste and modifications of existing pathways for generating new fuel additives.
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