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Genetic Engineering of an Unconventional Yeast for Renewable Biofuel and Biochemical Production
Published on: September 20, 2016
Engineering Yarrowia lipolytica as a next-generation biomanufacturing platform for sustainable lignocellulosic
Yutao Zhong1, Xiaoyue Pan2, Aiqin Shi1
1Biotechnology Institute, Xianghu Laboratory, Hangzhou 311231, PR China.
Abstract:
Faced with fossil fuel depletion, lignocellulosic biomass has emerged as a critical renewable feedstock for a sustainable bioeconomy; this review showcases the unique metabolic capabilities of the non-conventional oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica as an innovative biomanufacturing platform for the valorization lignocellulosic biomass, specifically highlighting recent engineering progresses in pentose utilization pathways enabling high-efficiency co-fermentation of hexose and pentose sugars to maximize conversion yields. Furthermore, the review critically explores advanced strategies, including adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) and rational metabolic engineering, to fortify Y. lipolytica tolerance against toxic inhibitors prevalent in lignocellulosic hydrolysates, overcoming a major bioconversion bottleneck. The application of these engineered strains for the efficient, lignocellulose-based production of high-value biochemicals-such as lipids, organic acids, and terpenoids-is comprehensively discussed, demonstrating its versatility and economic potential. Finally, current challenges and future research trajectories for optimizing Y. lipolytica as a robust chassis in sustainable lignocellulosic biorefineries are outlined.
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