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Updated: Jan 8, 2026

Extraction of Lignin with High β-O-4 Content by Mild Ethanol Extraction and Its Effect on the Depolymerization Yield
Published on: January 7, 2019
Regioselective Aromatic O-Demethylation of Lignin-Derived Monomeric Aromatic Ethers with an Engineered P450BM3
Sijia Zhao1,2, Di Yan1,3, Osami Shoji4
1State Key Laboratory of Mariculture Biobreeding and Sustainable Goods, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China.
Abstract:
Regioselective O-demethylation of lignin-derived aryl ethers is a key yet challenging step in lignin valorization, governing the efficient conversion of lignin into high-value aromatic chemicals. Here, we report an artificial peroxygenase system that integrates engineered P450BM3 with glucose oxidase (GOx) and a dual-functional small molecule (DFSM) to enable efficient O-demethylation driven by in situ H2O2 generation. This strategy circumvents the dependence on costly NADPH and improves catalytic sustainability and operational robustness. The engineered F87A/T268D/A328F mutant achieved efficient double O-demethylation of syringol with a turnover number (TON) of 583 ± 7, while the F87A/V78A mutant exhibited a 68.2-fold enhancement in catalytic efficiency toward anisole (TON = 341 ± 8) compared to wild-type P450BM3. Precise regulation of oxidative catalysis and H2O2 supply afforded high efficiency, selectivity, and stability. This work establishes a scalable and environmentally benign biocatalytic platform for upgrading lignin-derived aromatic monomers, advancing sustainable biomass utilization.
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