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Techniques for the Evolution of Robust Pentose-fermenting Yeast for Bioconversion of Lignocellulose to Ethanol
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Acetogens beyond gas fermentation: Enhancing bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass
Natálie Palucha1, Elodie Vlaeminck2, Evelien Uitterhaegen2
1Centre for Industrial Biotechnology and Biocatalysis (InBio.be), Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Ghent, 9000, Belgium; Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant (BBEPP), Rodenhuizekaai 1, Ghent, 9042, Belgium.
Biotechnology Advances
|March 11, 2026
Summary
Acetogenic bacteria, traditionally used for gas fermentation, can now utilize diverse organic compounds and CO2. This metabolic flexibility enhances carbon conversion efficiency for sustainable bioprocessing and circular bioeconomy applications.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Microbial Metabolism
- Synthetic Biology
Background:
- Acetogenic bacteria are anaerobes known for fixing CO2 and C1 substrates via the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway.
- Their traditional application is in gas fermentation for producing chemicals and biofuels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the expanding roles of acetogenic bacteria beyond traditional gas fermentation.
- To highlight their potential in mixotrophic systems and co-cultures for enhanced bioprocessing.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent research on acetogen metabolism and applications.
- Analysis of acetogen integration into mixotrophic and co-culture strategies.
- Evaluation of their tolerance to inhibitors and resilience in industrial settings.
Main Results:
- Acetogens demonstrate metabolic flexibility, utilizing saccharides, alcohols, organic acids, and lignocellulosic hydrolysates.
- Simultaneous utilization of hydrolysates and CO2 offers superior carbon conversion efficiency.
- Acetogens show tolerance to fermentation inhibitors and resilience under industrial conditions.
Conclusions:
- Acetogenic bacteria offer significant potential for consolidated bioprocessing and valorization of underutilized feedstocks.
- Their integration into advanced bioprocesses supports next-generation circular bioeconomy applications.
- Acetogens are key players in developing sustainable and cost-effective bioproduction systems.
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