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Microbial Degradation of Lignocellulose for Sustainable Biomass Utilization and Future Research Perspectives

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  • Mengke Chen

    (Hunan Engineering Research Center of Lotus Deep Processing and Nutritional Health Sciences, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China)

  • Qinyu Li

    (Hunan Engineering Research Center of Lotus Deep Processing and Nutritional Health Sciences, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China
    School of Life and Health Sciences, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China)

  • Changjun Liu

    (Hunan Engineering Research Center of Lotus Deep Processing and Nutritional Health Sciences, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China
    School of Life and Health Sciences, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China)

  • Er Meng

    (Hunan Engineering Research Center of Lotus Deep Processing and Nutritional Health Sciences, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China
    School of Life and Health Sciences, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China)

  • Baoguo Zhang

    (Lab of Biorefinery, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.99 Haike Road, Shanghai 201210, China)

Abstract

Lignocellulose, as Earth’s most abundant renewable biomass, represents a crucial resource for the production of biofuels and biochemicals, it is of great significance for sustainable development. Microbial degradation offers a promising pathway for transforming lignocellulose into valuable products. This review explores the diversity and classification of lignocellulose-degrading microorganisms, focusing on fungi and bacteria and their respective enzyme systems responsible for breaking down cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Key factors influencing degradation efficiency, including environmental conditions, substrate complexity, and microbial interactions, are thoroughly analyzed. Limitations in microbial degradation are also discussed, notably the need for identifying high-activity strains. Additionally, the review outlines future research directions, emphasizing the application of advanced technologies such as genomics, synthetic biology, and machine learning to optimize microbial degradation processes. These insights aim to enhance lignocellulose utilization efficiency, fostering its broader industrial and agricultural applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Mengke Chen & Qinyu Li & Changjun Liu & Er Meng & Baoguo Zhang, 2025. "Microbial Degradation of Lignocellulose for Sustainable Biomass Utilization and Future Research Perspectives," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(9), pages 1-22, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:9:p:4223-:d:1650681
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Roberto Paz Cedeno, Fernando & Belon de Siqueira, Breno & Gabriel Solorzano Chavez, Eddyn & Ulises Miranda Roldán, Ismael & Moreira Ropelato, Leonardo & Paul Martínez Galán, Julián & Masarin, Fernando, 2022. "Recovery of cellulose and lignin from Eucalyptus by-product and assessment of cellulose enzymatic hydrolysis," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 193(C), pages 807-820.
    2. Bugg, Timothy D.H. & Williamson, James J. & Alberti, Fabrizio, 2021. "Microbial hosts for metabolic engineering of lignin bioconversion to renewable chemicals," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 152(C).
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