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Engineering cellulases for conversion of lignocellulosic biomass
Yogesh B Chaudhari1, Anikó Várnai1, Morten Sørlie1
1Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, NMBU-Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway.
Protein Engineering, Design & Selection : PEDS
|March 9, 2023
Summary
This review explores engineering strategies for cellulases, enzymes crucial for breaking down lignocellulosic biomass into valuable products. Improving cellulase activity and stability is key for sustainable bioenergy and biochemical production.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology and Bioengineering
- Renewable Energy
- Enzymology
Background:
- Lignocellulosic biomass is a vital renewable resource for energy, chemicals, and materials.
- Efficient enzymatic depolymerization of cellulose to glucose is essential for biomass exploitation.
- Cellulases, comprising catalytic and carbohydrate-binding modules, are key enzymes produced by microbes.
Approach:
- This review focuses on engineering targets for cellulases to enhance their performance.
- It discusses significant cellulase engineering studies from recent decades.
- Recent advancements in the field of cellulase engineering are overviewed.
Key Points:
- Enzymes represent a significant cost in biomass conversion.
- Improved cellulases should exhibit higher activity, stability, and minimal product inhibition.
- Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases are accessory enzymes that aid cellulose depolymerization.
Conclusions:
- Engineering efforts aim to develop more robust and efficient cellulases for cost-effective biomass utilization.
- Optimized cellulases are critical for advancing the economic viability of lignocellulosic biomass applications.
- Continued research in cellulase engineering promises significant contributions to the bioeconomy.
