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Mubayi V, Ahern CB, Calusinska M, O’Malley MA. Toward a Circular Bioeconomy: Designing Microbes and Polymers for Biodegradation. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1978-1993. [PMID: 38918080 PMCID: PMC11264326 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Polymer production is rapidly increasing, but there are no large-scale technologies available to effectively mitigate the massive accumulation of these recalcitrant materials. One potential solution is the development of a carbon-neutral polymer life cycle, where microorganisms convert plant biomass to chemicals, which are used to synthesize biodegradable materials that ultimately contribute to the growth of new plants. Realizing a circular carbon life cycle requires the integration of knowledge across microbiology, bioengineering, materials science, and organic chemistry, which itself has hindered large-scale industrial advances. This review addresses the biodegradation status of common synthetic polymers, identifying novel microbes and enzymes capable of metabolizing these recalcitrant materials and engineering approaches to enhance their biodegradation pathways. Design considerations for the next generation of biodegradable polymers are also reviewed, and finally, opportunities to apply findings from lignocellulosic biodegradation to the design and biodegradation of similarly recalcitrant synthetic polymers are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Mubayi
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Colleen B. Ahern
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Magdalena Calusinska
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Environmental
Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg
Institute of Science and Technology, L-4422 Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Michelle A. O’Malley
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Joint
BioEnergy Institute (JBEI), Emeryville, California 94608, United States
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2
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Gao J, Ali MY, Kamaraj Y, Zhang Z, Weike L, Sethupathy S, Zhu D. A comprehensive review on biological funnel mechanism in lignin valorization: Pathways and enzyme dynamics. Microbiol Res 2024; 287:127835. [PMID: 39032264 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Lignin, a significant byproduct of the paper and pulp industry, is attracting interest due to its potential utilization in biomaterial-based sectors and biofuel production. Investigating biological methods for converting lignin into valuable products is crucial for effective utilization and has recently gained growing attention. Several microorganisms effectively decomposed low molecular weight lignins, transforming them into intermediate compounds via upper and lower metabolic pathways. This review focuses on assessing bacterial metabolic pathways involved in the breakdown of lignin into aromatic compounds and their subsequent utilization by different bacteria through various metabolic pathways. Understanding these pathways is essential for developing efficient synthetic metabolic systems to valorize lignin and obtain valuable industrial aromatic chemicals. The concept of "biological funneling," which involves examining key enzymes, their interactions, and the complex metabolic pathways associated with lignin conversion, is crucial in lignin valorization. By manipulating lignin metabolic pathways and utilizing biological routes, many aromatic compounds can be synthesized within cellular factories. Although there is insufficient evidence regarding the complete metabolism of polyaromatic hydrocarbons by particular microorganisms, understanding lignin-degrading enzymes, regulatory mechanisms, and interactions among various enzyme systems is essential for optimizing lignin valorization. This review highlights recent advancements in lignin valorization, bio-funneling, multi-omics, and analytical characterization approaches for aromatic utilization. It provides up-to-date information and insights into the latest research findings and technological innovations. The review offers valuable insights into the future potential of biological routes for lignin valorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayue Gao
- Biofuels Institute, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Mohamed Yassin Ali
- Biofuels Institute, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Fayoum 63514, Egypt
| | - Yoganathan Kamaraj
- Biofuels Institute, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Zhenghao Zhang
- Biofuels Institute, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Li Weike
- Biofuels Institute, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Sivasamy Sethupathy
- Biofuels Institute, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
| | - Daochen Zhu
- Biofuels Institute, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China.
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3
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Fujimaki S, Sakamoto S, Shimada S, Kino K, Furuya T. Engineering a coenzyme-independent dioxygenase for one-step production of vanillin from ferulic acid. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0023324. [PMID: 38727223 PMCID: PMC11218615 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00233-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Vanillin is one of the world's most important flavor and fragrance compounds used in foods and cosmetics. In plants, vanillin is reportedly biosynthesized from ferulic acid via the hydratase/lyase-type enzyme VpVAN. However, in biotechnological and biocatalytic applications, the use of VpVAN limits the production of vanillin. Although microbial enzymes are helpful as substitutes for plant enzymes, synthesizing vanillin from ferulic acid in one step using microbial enzymes remains a challenge. Here, we developed a single enzyme that catalyzes vanillin production from ferulic acid in a coenzyme-independent manner via the rational design of a microbial dioxygenase in the carotenoid cleavage oxygenase family using computational simulations. This enzyme acquired catalytic activity toward ferulic acid by introducing mutations into the active center to increase its affinity for ferulic acid. We found that the single enzyme can catalyze not only the production of vanillin from ferulic acid but also the synthesis of other aldehydes from p-coumaric acid, sinapinic acid, and coniferyl alcohol. These results indicate that the approach used in this study can greatly expand the range of substrates available for the dioxygenase family of enzymes. The engineered enzyme enables efficient production of vanillin and other value-added aldehydes from renewable lignin-derived compounds. IMPORTANCE The final step of vanillin biosynthesis in plants is reportedly catalyzed by the enzyme VpVAN. Prior to our study, VpVAN was the only reported enzyme that directly converts ferulic acid to vanillin. However, as many characteristics of VpVAN remain unknown, this enzyme is not yet suitable for biocatalytic applications. We show that an enzyme that converts ferulic acid to vanillin in one step could be constructed by modifying a microbial dioxygenase-type enzyme. The engineered enzyme is of biotechnological importance as a tool for the production of vanillin and related compounds via biocatalytic processes and metabolic engineering. The results of this study may also provide useful insights for understanding vanillin biosynthesis in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizuka Fujimaki
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Satsuki Sakamoto
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shota Shimada
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kuniki Kino
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiki Furuya
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, Japan
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Yu L, An Z, Xie D, Yin D, Xie G, Gao X, Xiao Y, Liu J, Fang Z. From waste to protein: a new strategy of converting composted distilled grain wastes into animal feed. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1405564. [PMID: 38881654 PMCID: PMC11176434 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1405564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Distilled grain waste (DGW) is rich in nutrients and can be a potential resource as animal feed. However, DGW contains as much as 14% lignin, dramatically reducing the feeding value. White-rot fungi such as Pleurotus ostreatus could preferentially degrade lignin with high efficiency. However, lignin derivatives generated during alcohol distillation inhibit P. ostreatus growth. Thus, finding a new strategy to adjust the DGW properties to facilitate P. ostreatus growth is critical for animal feed preparation and DGW recycling. In this study, three dominant indigenous bacteria, including Sphingobacterium thermophilum X1, Pseudoxanthomonas byssovorax X3, and Bacillus velezensis 15F were chosen to generate single and compound microbial inoculums for DGW composting to prepare substrates for P. ostreatus growth. Compared with non-inoculated control or single microbial inoculation, all composite inoculations, especially the three-microbial compound, led to faster organic metabolism, shorter composting process, and improved physicochemical properties of DGW. P. ostreatus growth assays showed the fastest mycelial colonization (20.43 μg·g-1 ergosterol) and extension (9 mm/d), the highest ligninolytic enzyme activities (Lac, 152.68 U·g-1; Lip, 15.56 U·g-1; MnP, 0.34 U·g-1; Xylanase, 10.98 U·g-1; FPase, 0.71 U·g-1), and the highest lignin degradation ratio (30.77%) in the DGW sample after 12 h of composting with the three-microbial compound inoculation when compared to other groups. This sample was relatively abundant in bacteria playing critical roles in amino acid, carbohydrate, energy metabolism, and xenobiotic biodegradation, as suggested by metagenomic analysis. The feed value analysis revealed that P. ostreatus mycelia full colonization in composted DGW led to high fiber content retention and decreased lignin content (final ratio of 5% lignin) but elevated protein concentrations (about 130 g·kg-1 DM). An additional daily weight gain of 0.4 kg/d was shown in cattle feeding experiments by replacing 60% of regular feed with it. These findings demonstrate that compound inoculant consisting of three indigenous microorganisms is efficient to compost DGW and facilitate P. ostreatus growth. P. ostreatus decreased the lignin content of composted DGW during its mycelial growth, improving the quality of DGW for feeding cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Microorganisms and Biocatalysis, Hefei, China
| | - Zichao An
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Microorganisms and Biocatalysis, Hefei, China
| | - Dengdeng Xie
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Microorganisms and Biocatalysis, Hefei, China
| | - Diao Yin
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Microorganisms and Biocatalysis, Hefei, China
| | - Guopai Xie
- Anhui Golden Seed Winery Co., Ltd., Fuyang, China
| | - Xuezhi Gao
- Anhui Golden Seed Winery Co., Ltd., Fuyang, China
| | - Yazhong Xiao
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Microorganisms and Biocatalysis, Hefei, China
| | - Juanjuan Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Microorganisms and Biocatalysis, Hefei, China
| | - Zemin Fang
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Microorganisms and Biocatalysis, Hefei, China
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Ozsefil IC, Miraloglu IH, Ozbayram EG, Ince B, Ince O. Bioaugmentation of anaerobic digesters with the enriched lignin-degrading microbial consortia through a metagenomic approach. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 355:141831. [PMID: 38561162 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The recalcitrance of lignin impedes the efficient utilization of lignocellulosic biomass, hindering the efficient production of biogas and value-added materials. Despite the emergence of anaerobic digestion as a superior alternative to the aerobic method for lignin processing, achieving its feasibility requires thorough characterization of lignin-degrading anaerobic microorganisms, assessment of their biomethane production potential, and a comprehensive understanding of the degradation pathway. This study aimed to address the aforementioned necessities by bioaugmenting seed sludge with three distinct enriched lignin-degrading microbial consortia at both 25 °C and 37 °C. Enhanced biomethane yields was detected in the bioaugmented digesters, while the highest production was observed as 188 mLN CH4 gVS-1 in digesters operated at 37 °C. Moreover, methane yield showed a significant improvement in the samples at 37 °C ranging from 110% to 141% compared to the control, demonstrating the efficiency of the enriched lignin-degrading microbial community. Temperature and substrate were identified as key factors influencing microbial community dynamics. The observation that microbial communities tended to revert to the initial state after lignin depletion, indicating the stability of the overall microbiota composition in the digesters, is a promising finding for large-scale studies. Noteworthy candidates for lignin degradation, including Sporosarcina psychrophila, Comamonas aquatica, Shewanella baltica, Pseudomonas sp. C27, and Brevefilum fermentans were identified in the bioaugmented samples. PICRUSt2 predictions suggest that the pathway and specific proteins involved in anaerobic lignin degradation might share similarities with those engaged in the degradation of aromatic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Cem Ozsefil
- Bogazici University, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Bebek, 34342, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - E Gozde Ozbayram
- Istanbul University, Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, Department of Marine and Freshwater Resources Management, Fatih, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bahar Ince
- Bogazici University, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Bebek, 34342, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Orhan Ince
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, 34396, Istanbul, Turkey
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Manoli MT, Gargantilla-Becerra Á, Del Cerro Sánchez C, Rivero-Buceta V, Prieto MA, Nogales J. A model-driven approach to upcycling recalcitrant feedstocks in Pseudomonas putida by decoupling PHA production from nutrient limitation. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113979. [PMID: 38517887 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have emerged as promising eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum-based plastics since they are synthesized from renewable resources and offer exceptional properties. However, their production is limited to the stationary growth phase under nutrient-limited conditions, requiring customized strategies and costly two-phase bioprocesses. In this study, we tackle these challenges by employing a model-driven approach to reroute carbon flux and remove regulatory constraints using synthetic biology. We construct a collection of Pseudomonas putida-overproducing strains at the expense of plastics and lignin-related compounds using growth-coupling approaches. PHA production was successfully achieved during growth phase, resulting in the production of up to 46% PHA/cell dry weight while maintaining a balanced carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. Our strains are additionally validated under an upcycling scenario using enzymatically hydrolyzed polyethylene terephthalate as a feedstock. These findings have the potential to revolutionize PHA production and address the global plastic crisis by overcoming the complexities of traditional PHA production bioprocesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Tsampika Manoli
- Polymer Biotechnology Group, Department of Microbial and Plant Biotechnology, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy-Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Álvaro Gargantilla-Becerra
- Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy-Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain; 3Systems Biotechnology Group, Department of Systems Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, CSIC, Madrid 28049, Spain
| | - Carlos Del Cerro Sánchez
- Polymer Biotechnology Group, Department of Microbial and Plant Biotechnology, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy-Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Virginia Rivero-Buceta
- Polymer Biotechnology Group, Department of Microbial and Plant Biotechnology, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy-Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - M Auxiliadora Prieto
- Polymer Biotechnology Group, Department of Microbial and Plant Biotechnology, Margarita Salas Center for Biological Research (CIB-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy-Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Juan Nogales
- Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy-Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain; 3Systems Biotechnology Group, Department of Systems Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, CSIC, Madrid 28049, Spain; CNB DNA Biofoundry (CNBio), CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
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Zhang Q, Wang Q, Chen H, Chen L, Wang F, Gu Z, Shi G, Liu L, Ding Z. Lignin-degrading enzyme production was enhanced by the novel transcription factor Ptf6 in synergistic microbial co-culture. Microbiol Res 2024; 280:127575. [PMID: 38147744 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Synergistic microbial co-culture has been an efficient and energy-saving strategy to produce lignin-degrading enzymes (LDEs), including laccase, manganese peroxidase, and versatile peroxidase. However, the regulatory mechanism of microbial co-culture is still unclear. Herein, the extracellular LDE activities of four white-rot fungi were significantly increased by 88-544% over monoculture levels when co-cultured with Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. Ptf6 was demonstrated from the 9 million Y1H clone library to be a shared GATA transcription factor in the four fungi, and could directly bind to the laccase gene promoter. Ptf6 exists in two alternatively spliced isoforms under monoculture, namely Ptf6-α (1078 amino acids) containing Cys2/Cys2-type zinc finger and Ptf6-β (963 amino acids) lacking the complete domain. Ptf6 responded to co-culture by up-regulation of both its own transcripts and the proportion of Ptf6-α. Ptf6-α positively activated the production of most LDE isoenzymes and bound to four GATA motifs on the LDEs' promoter with different affinities. Moreover, Ptf6-regulation mechanism can be applicable to a variety of microbial co-culture systems. This study lays a theoretical foundation for further improving LDEs production and providing an efficient way to enhance the effects of biological and enzymatic pretreatment for lignocellulosic biomass conversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Qiong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Haixiu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Feng Wang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Zhenghua Gu
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Guiyang Shi
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Liming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhongyang Ding
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.
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8
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Clobes ML, Kozliak EI, Kubátová A. Advancing Molecular Weight Determination of Lignin by Multi-Angle Light Scattering. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:477. [PMID: 38399853 PMCID: PMC10892000 DOI: 10.3390/polym16040477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to the complexity and recalcitrance of lignin, its chemical characterization is a key factor preventing the valorization of this abundant material. Multi-angle light scattering (MALS) is becoming a sought-after technique for absolute molecular weight (MW) determination of polymers and proteins. Lignin is a suitable candidate for MW determination via MALS, yet further investigation is required to confirm its absolute MW values and molecular size. Studies aiming to break down lignin into a variety of renewable products will benefit greatly from a simple and reliable determination method like MALS. Recent pioneering studies, discussed in this review, addressed several key challenges in lignin's MW characterization. Nevertheless, some lignin-specific issues still need to be considered for in-depth characterization. This study explores how MALS instrumentation manages the complexities of determining lignin's MW, e.g., with simultaneous fractionation and fluorescence interference mitigation. Additionally, we rationalize the importance of a more detailed light scattering analysis for lignin characterization, including aspects like the second virial coefficient and radius of gyration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Evguenii I. Kozliak
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Dakota, 151 Cornell St., Stop 9024, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA;
| | - Alena Kubátová
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Dakota, 151 Cornell St., Stop 9024, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA;
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9
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Giparakis S, Winkler M, Rudroff F. Nature stays natural: two novel chemo-enzymatic one-pot cascades for the synthesis of fragrance and flavor aldehydes. GREEN CHEMISTRY : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL AND GREEN CHEMISTRY RESOURCE : GC 2024; 26:1338-1344. [PMID: 38323304 PMCID: PMC10840651 DOI: 10.1039/d3gc04191c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Novel synthetic strategies for the production of high-value chemicals based on the 12 principles of green chemistry are highly desired. Herein, we present a proof of concept for two novel chemo-enzymatic one-pot cascades allowing for the production of valuable fragrance and flavor aldehydes. We utilized renewable phenylpropenes, such as eugenol from cloves or estragole from estragon, as starting materials. For the first strategy, Pd-catalyzed isomerization of the allylic double bond and subsequent enzyme-mediated (aromatic dioxygenase, ADO) alkene cleavage were performed to obtain the desired aldehydes. In the second route, the double bond was oxidized to the corresponding ketone via a copper-free Wacker oxidation protocol followed by enzymatic Baeyer-Villiger oxidation (phenylacetone monooxygenase from Thermobifida fusca), esterase-mediated (esterase from Pseudomonas fluorescens, PfeI) hydrolysis and subsequent oxidation of the primary alcohol (alcohol dehydrogenase from Pseudomonas putida, AlkJ) to the respective aldehyde products. Eight different phenylpropene derivatives were subjected to these reaction sequences, allowing for the synthesis of seven aldehydes in up to 55% yield after 4 reaction steps (86% for each step).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Giparakis
- TU Wien, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry Getreidemarkt 9 163-OC 1060 Vienna Austria
| | - Margit Winkler
- TU-Graz, Institut für Molekulare Biotechnologie Petersgasse 14 8010 Graz Austria
- Austrian Center of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB GmbH) Krenngasse 37 8010 Graz Austria
| | - Florian Rudroff
- TU Wien, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry Getreidemarkt 9 163-OC 1060 Vienna Austria
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10
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Ran H, Zhang S, Ni W, Jing Y. Precise activation of C-C bonds for recycling and upcycling of plastics. Chem Sci 2024; 15:795-831. [PMID: 38239692 PMCID: PMC10793209 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc05701a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid accumulation of plastic waste has led to a severe environmental crisis and a noticeable imbalance between manufacturing and recycling. Fortunately, chemical upgradation of plastic waste holds substantial promise for addressing these challenges posed by white pollution. During plastic upcycling and recycling, the key challenge is to activate and cleave the inert C-C bonds in plastic waste. Therefore, this perspective delves deeper into the upcycling and recycling of polyolefins from the angle of C-C activation-cleavage. We illustrate the importance of C-C bond activation in polyolefin depolymerization and integrate molecular-level catalysis, active site modulation, reaction networks and mechanisms to achieve precise activation-cleavage of C-C bonds. Notably, we draw potential inspiration from the accumulated wisdom of related fields, such as C-C bond activation in lignin chemistry, alkane dehydrogenation chemistry, C-Cl bond activation in CVOC removal, and C-H bond activation, to influence the landscape of plastic degradation through cross-disciplinary perspectives. Consequently, this perspective offers better insights into existing catalytic technologies and unveils new prospects for future advancements in recycling and upcycling of plastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongshun Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
- Institute for the Environment and Health, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus Suzhou 215163 China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
- Institute for the Environment and Health, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus Suzhou 215163 China
| | - Wenyi Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
- Institute for the Environment and Health, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus Suzhou 215163 China
| | - Yaxuan Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University Nanjing 210023 China
- Institute for the Environment and Health, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus Suzhou 215163 China
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11
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Zhang G, Lou M, Xu J, Li Y, Zhou J, Guo H, Qu G, Wang T, Jia H, Zhu L. Molecular insights into microbial transformation of bioaerosol-derived dissolved organic matter discharged from wastewater treatment plant. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 183:108404. [PMID: 38154320 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) are important sources of aerosol-derived dissolved organic matter (ADOM) which may threaten human health via the respiratory system. In this study, aerosols were sampled from a typical WWTP to explore the chemical molecular diversity, molecular ecological network, and potential toxicities of the ADOM in the aerosols. The high fluorescence index (>1.9) and biological index (0.66-1.17) indicated the strong autogenous microbial source characteristics of the ADOM in the WWTP. DOM and microbes in the wastewater were aerosolized due to strong agitation and bubbling in the treatment processes, and contributed to 74 % and 75 %, respectively, of the ADOM and microbes in the aerosols. The ADOM was mainly composed of CHO and CHOS accounting for 35 % and 29 % of the total number of molecules, respectively, with lignin-like (69 %) as the major constituent. 49 % of the ADOM transformations were thermodynamically limited, and intragroup transformations were easier than intergroup transformations. Bacteria in the aerosols involved in ADOM transformations exhibited both cooperative and divergent behaviors and tended to transform carbohydrate-like and amino sugar/protein-like into recalcitrant lignin-like. The microbial compositions were affected by atmosphere temperature and humidity indirectly by modulating the properties of ADOM. Tannin-like, lignin-like, and unsaturated hydrocarbon-like molecules in the ADOM were primary toxicity contributors, facilitating the expression of inflammatory factors IL-β (2.2-5.4 folds), TNF-α (3.5-7.0 folds), and IL-6 (3.5-11.2 folds), respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guodong Zhang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Mingxuan Lou
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jiamin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yutong Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - He Guo
- College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Guangzhou Qu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Tiecheng Wang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Hanzhong Jia
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300385, China.
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12
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Zhang Y, Jia S, Wang X, Deng H, Xu W, Shi J. Bimetallic polyoxometalates catalysts for efficient lignin depolymerization: Unlocking valuable aromatic compounds from renewable feedstock. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127363. [PMID: 37827421 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Lignin, a complex and abundant polymer present in lignocellulosic biomass, holds immense potential as a renewable source for the production of valuable aromatic compounds. However, the efficient depolymerization of lignin into these compounds remains a formidable challenge. Here, we present a promising solution by harnessing polyoxometalates (POMs) catalysts, which exhibit improved catalytic performance and selectivity. We synthesized a series of NixCoy@POMs catalysts (POMs: CsPW or CsPMo) and explored their application in the depolymerization of pine lignin, aiming to investigate the influence of different metal species and doping ratios of POMs on catalytic performance. Through meticulous optimization of reaction conditions, we achieved significant yields of valuable aromatic compounds, including methyl vanillate, vanillin, and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyacetophenone. Furthermore, the Ni0.75Co0.75@CsPMo catalyst demonstrated exceptional efficacy in catalyzing the cracking process of C-C and/or C-O bonds in a β-O-4 dimer model compound. Notably, our catalyst exhibited outstanding stability over five cycles, underscoring its suitability as an effective heterogeneous catalyst for cyclic lignin depolymerization. This study sheds light on the potential of POMs-based catalysts for advancing lignin valorization and offers new avenues for sustainable biomass conversion into valuable chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China
| | - Suyuan Jia
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China
| | - Haoyu Deng
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China
| | - Wenbiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China; Key Laboratory of Biomass Materials Science and Technology of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China.
| | - Junyou Shi
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China; Key Laboratory of Biomass Materials Science and Technology of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Forest Biomass Green Manufacturing of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, PR China.
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Li P, Xu Y, Yin L, Liang X, Wang R, Liu K. Development of Raw Materials and Technology for Pulping-A Brief Review. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4465. [PMID: 38006189 PMCID: PMC10675330 DOI: 10.3390/polym15224465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Paper is one of the most significant inventions in human civilization, which considerably advanced global cultural development. Pulping is a key step in the conversion of fiber raw materials into paper. Since its inception, pulping has rapidly evolved, continually adapting to technological advancements. Researchers are constantly investigating various types of raw materials for pulping. In this review, some of the materials employed in pulping are outlined, and the fiber content, pulping method, as well as the strength of wood and non-wood crop straw as pulping raw materials are analyzed and discussed. In addition, this review explores the effects of different materials under various pulping conditions and assesses the future trends in raw material selection for pulping while considering the current global environmental pressures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piwu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking (LBMP), Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (P.L.); (Y.X.); (X.L.); (R.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Shandong Microbial Engineering, College of Bioengineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China
| | - Yanpeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking (LBMP), Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (P.L.); (Y.X.); (X.L.); (R.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Shandong Microbial Engineering, College of Bioengineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China
| | - Liang Yin
- Gansu Engineering Technology Research Center for Microalgae, Hexi University, Zhangye 734000, China;
| | - Xiaoli Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking (LBMP), Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (P.L.); (Y.X.); (X.L.); (R.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Shandong Microbial Engineering, College of Bioengineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China
| | - Ruiming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking (LBMP), Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (P.L.); (Y.X.); (X.L.); (R.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Shandong Microbial Engineering, College of Bioengineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China
| | - Kaiquan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking (LBMP), Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China; (P.L.); (Y.X.); (X.L.); (R.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Shandong Microbial Engineering, College of Bioengineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China
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14
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Sun L, Yin X, Sossah FL, Han X, Li Y. Comparative genomic analysis of pleurotus species reveals insights into the evolution and coniferous utilization of Pleurotus placentodes. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1292556. [PMID: 38028535 PMCID: PMC10658006 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1292556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pleurotus placentodes (PPL) and Pleurotus cystidiosus (PCY) are economically valuable species. PPL grows on conifers, while PCY grows on broad-leaved trees. To reveal the genetic mechanism behind PPL's adaptability to conifers, we performed de novo genome sequencing and comparative analysis of PPL and PCY. We determined the size of the genomes for PPL and PCY to be 36.12 and 42.74 Mb, respectively, and found that they contain 10,851 and 15,673 protein-coding genes, accounting for 59.34% and 53.70% of their respective genome sizes. Evolution analysis showed PPL was closely related to P. ostreatus with the divergence time of 62.7 MYA, while PCY was distantly related to other Pleurotus species with the divergence time of 111.7 MYA. Comparative analysis of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZYmes) in PPL and PCY showed that the increase number of CAZYmes related to pectin and cellulose degradation (e.g., AA9, PL1) in PPL may be important for the degradation and colonization of conifers. In addition, geraniol degradation and peroxisome pathways identified by comparative genomes should be another factors for PPL's tolerance to conifer substrate. Our research provides valuable genomes for Pleurotus species and sheds light on the genetic mechanism of PPL's conifer adaptability, which could aid in breeding new Pleurotus varieties for coniferous utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Sun
- Jilin Province Key Laboratory of Fungal Phenomics, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
- International Cooperation Research Center of China for New Germplasm Breeding of Edible Mushrooms, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaolei Yin
- Jilin Province Key Laboratory of Fungal Phenomics, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
- International Cooperation Research Center of China for New Germplasm Breeding of Edible Mushrooms, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Frederick Leo Sossah
- Jilin Province Key Laboratory of Fungal Phenomics, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Oil Palm Research Institute, Coconut Research Programme, Sekondi, Ghana
| | - Xuerong Han
- Jilin Province Key Laboratory of Fungal Phenomics, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
- International Cooperation Research Center of China for New Germplasm Breeding of Edible Mushrooms, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Yu Li
- Jilin Province Key Laboratory of Fungal Phenomics, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
- International Cooperation Research Center of China for New Germplasm Breeding of Edible Mushrooms, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
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15
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Xue L, Zhao Y, Li L, Rao X, Chen X, Ma F, Yu H, Xie S. A key O-demethylase in the degradation of guaiacol by Rhodococcus opacus PD630. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0052223. [PMID: 37800939 PMCID: PMC10617553 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00522-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhodococcus opacus PD630 is a high oil-producing strain with the ability to convert lignin-derived aromatics to high values, but limited research has been done to elucidate its conversion pathway, especially the upper pathways. In this study, we focused on the upper pathways and demethylation mechanism of lignin-derived aromatics metabolism by R. opacus PD630. The results of the aromatic carbon resource utilization screening showed that R. opacus PD630 had a strong degradation capacity to the lignin-derived methoxy-containing aromatics, such as guaiacol, 3,4-veratric acid, anisic acid, isovanillic acid, and vanillic acid. The gene of gcoAR, which encodes cytochrome P450, showed significant up-regulation when R. opacus PD630 grew on diverse aromatics. Deletion mutants of gcoAR and its partner protein gcoBR resulted in the strain losing the ability to grow on guaiacol, but no significant difference to the other aromatics. Only co-complementation alone of gcoAR and gcoBR restored the strain's ability to utilize guaiacol, demonstrating that both genes were equally important in the utilization of guaiacol. In vitro assays further revealed that GcoAR could convert guaiacol and anisole to catechol and phenol, respectively, with the production of formaldehyde as a by-product. The study provided robust evidence to reveal the molecular mechanism of R. opacus PD630 on guaiacol metabolism and offered a promising study model for dissecting the demethylation process of lignin-derived aromatics in microbes.IMPORTANCEAryl-O-demethylation is believed to be the key rate-limiting step in the catabolism of heterogeneous lignin-derived aromatics in both native and engineered microbes. However, the mechanisms of O-demethylation in lignin-derived aromatic catabolism remain unclear. Notably, guaiacol, the primary component unit of lignin, lacks in situ demonstration and illustration of the molecular mechanism of guaiacol O-demethylation in lignin-degrading bacteria. This is the first study to illustrate the mechanism of guaiacol metabolism by R. opacus PD630 in situ as well as characterize the purified key O-demethylase in vitro. This study provided further insight into the lignin metabolic pathway of R. opacus PD630 and could guide the design of an efficient biocatalytic system for lignin valorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Xue
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yiquan Zhao
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xinran Rao
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xinjie Chen
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Fuying Ma
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hongbo Yu
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shangxian Xie
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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16
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Sun S, Li F, Li M, Zhang W, Jiang Z, Zhao H, Pu Y, Ragauskas AJ, Dai SY, Zhang X, Yu H, Yuan JS, Xie S. Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase synergized with lignin-degrading enzymes for efficient lignin degradation. iScience 2023; 26:107870. [PMID: 37766973 PMCID: PMC10520884 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Even though the discovery of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) has fundamentally shifted our understanding of biomass degradation, most of the current studies focused on their roles in carbohydrate oxidation. However, no study demonstrated if LPMO could directly participate to the process of lignin degradation in lignin-degrading microbes. This study showed that LPMO could synergize with lignin-degrading enzymes for efficient lignin degradation in white-rot fungi. The transcriptomics analysis of fungi Irpex lacteus and Dichomitus squalens during their lignocellulosic biomass degradation processes surprisingly highlighted that LPMOs co-regulated with lignin-degrading enzymes, indicating their more versatile roles in the redox network. Biochemical analysis further confirmed that the purified LPMO from I. lacteus CD2 could use diverse electron donors to produce H2O2, drive Fenton reaction, and synergize with manganese peroxidase for lignin oxidation. The results thus indicated that LPMO might uniquely leverage the redox network toward dynamic and efficient degradation of different cell wall components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Sun
- Department of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- College of Urban Construction, Wuchang Shouyi University, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China
| | - Muzi Li
- Department of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- Texas A&M Agrilife Synthetic, Systems Biology Innovation Hub, Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Wenqian Zhang
- Texas A&M Agrilife Synthetic, Systems Biology Innovation Hub, Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Zhenxiong Jiang
- Texas A&M Agrilife Synthetic, Systems Biology Innovation Hub, Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Honglu Zhao
- Department of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yunqiao Pu
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
| | - Arthur J. Ragauskas
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Susie Y. Dai
- Texas A&M Agrilife Synthetic, Systems Biology Innovation Hub, Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Department of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Hongbo Yu
- Department of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Joshua S. Yuan
- Department of Energy, Environmental, and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Shangxian Xie
- Department of Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
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Kumari S, Das S. Bacterial enzymatic degradation of recalcitrant organic pollutants: catabolic pathways and genetic regulations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:79676-79705. [PMID: 37330441 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28130-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Contamination of soil and natural water bodies driven by increased organic pollutants remains a universal concern. Naturally, organic pollutants contain carcinogenic and toxic properties threatening all known life forms. The conventional physical and chemical methods employed to remove these organic pollutants ironically produce toxic and non-ecofriendly end-products. Whereas microbial-based degradation of organic pollutants provides an edge, they are usually cost-effective and take an eco-friendly approach towards remediation. Bacterial species, including Pseudomonas, Comamonas, Burkholderia, and Xanthomonas, have the unique genetic makeup to metabolically degrade toxic pollutants, conferring their survival in toxic environments. Several catabolic genes, such as alkB, xylE, catA, and nahAc, that encode enzymes and allow bacteria to degrade organic pollutants have been identified, characterized, and even engineered for better efficacy. Aerobic and anaerobic processes are followed by bacteria to metabolize aliphatic saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons such as alkanes, cycloalkanes, aldehydes, and ethers. Bacteria use a variety of degrading pathways, including catechol, protocatechuate, gentisate, benzoate, and biphenyl, to remove aromatic organic contaminants such as polychlorinated biphenyls, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and pesticides from the environment. A better understanding of the principle, mechanisms, and genetics would be beneficial for improving the metabolic efficacy of bacteria to such ends. With a focus on comprehending the mechanisms involved in various catabolic pathways and the genetics of the biotransformation of these xenobiotic compounds, the present review offers insight into the various sources and types of known organic pollutants and their toxic effects on health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swetambari Kumari
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Surajit Das
- Laboratory of Environmental Microbiology and Ecology (LEnME), Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, 769008, Odisha, India.
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Wang X, Xu W, Zhang D, Li X, Shi J. Structural Characteristics-Reactivity Relationships for Catalytic Depolymerization of Lignin into Aromatic Compounds: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098330. [PMID: 37176036 PMCID: PMC10179062 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing renewable biomass resources is an urgent task to reduce climate change. Lignin, the only renewable aromatic feedstock present in nature, has attracted considerable global interest in its transformation and utilization. However, the complexity of lignin's structure, uncertain linkages, stability of side chain connection, and inevitable recondensation of reaction fragments make lignin depolymerization into biofuels or platform chemicals a daunting challenge. Therefore, understanding the structural characteristics and reactivity relationships is crucial for achieving high-value utilization of lignin. In this review, we summarize the key achievements in the field of lignin conversion with a focus on the effects of the β-O-4 content, S/G ratio, lignin sources, and an "ideal" lignin-catechyl lignin. We discuss how these characteristics influence the formation of lignin monomer products and provide an outlook on the future direction of lignin depolymerization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin 132013, China
| | - Wenbiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin 132013, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Materials Science and Technology of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin 132013, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Materials Science and Technology of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin 132013, China
| | - Xiangyu Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Forest Biomass Green Manufacturing of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin 132013, China
| | - Junyou Shi
- Key Laboratory of Wooden Materials Science and Engineering of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin 132013, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Materials Science and Technology of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin 132013, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Forest Biomass Green Manufacturing of Jilin Province, Beihua University, Binjiang East Road, Jilin 132013, China
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Lan HN, Liu RY, Liu ZH, Li X, Li BZ, Yuan YJ. Biological valorization of lignin to flavonoids. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 64:108107. [PMID: 36758651 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Lignin is the most affluent natural aromatic biopolymer on the earth, which is the promising renewable source for valuable products to promote the sustainability of biorefinery. Flavonoids are a class of plant polyphenolic secondary metabolites containing the benzene ring structure with various biological activities, which are largely applied in health food, pharmaceutical, and medical fields. Due to the aromatic similarity, microbial conversion of lignin derived aromatics to flavonoids could facilitate flavonoid biosynthesis and promote the lignin valorization. This review thereby prospects a novel valorization route of lignin to high-value natural products and demonstrates the potential advantages of microbial bioconversion of lignin to flavonoids. The biodegradation of lignin polymers is summarized to identify aromatic monomers as momentous precursors for flavonoid synthesis. The biosynthesis pathways of flavonoids in both plants and strains are introduced and compared. After that, the key branch points and important intermediates are clearly discussed in the biosynthesis pathways of flavonoids. Moreover, the most significant enzyme reactions including Claisen condensation, cyclization and hydroxylation are demonstrated in the biosynthesis pathways of flavonoids. Finally, current challenges and potential future strategies are also discussed for transforming lignin into various flavonoids. The holistic microbial conversion routes of lignin to flavonoids could make a sustainable production of flavonoids and improve the feasibility of lignin valorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Na Lan
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Ruo-Ying Liu
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Zhi-Hua Liu
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Xia Li
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Bing-Zhi Li
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China.
| | - Ying-Jin Yuan
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
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Martínková L, Grulich M, Pátek M, Křístková B, Winkler M. Bio-Based Valorization of Lignin-Derived Phenolic Compounds: A Review. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050717. [PMID: 37238587 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Lignins are the most abundant biopolymers that consist of aromatic units. Lignins are obtained by fractionation of lignocellulose in the form of "technical lignins". The depolymerization (conversion) of lignin and the treatment of depolymerized lignin are challenging processes due to the complexity and resistance of lignins. Progress toward mild work-up of lignins has been discussed in numerous reviews. The next step in the valorization of lignin is the conversion of lignin-based monomers, which are limited in number, into a wider range of bulk and fine chemicals. These reactions may need chemicals, catalysts, solvents, or energy from fossil resources. This is counterintuitive to green, sustainable chemistry. Therefore, in this review, we focus on biocatalyzed reactions of lignin monomers, e.g., vanillin, vanillic acid, syringaldehyde, guaiacols, (iso)eugenol, ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, and alkylphenols. For each monomer, its production from lignin or lignocellulose is summarized, and, mainly, its biotransformations that provide useful chemicals are discussed. The technological maturity of these processes is characterized based on, e.g., scale, volumetric productivities, or isolated yields. The biocatalyzed reactions are compared with their chemically catalyzed counterparts if the latter are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila Martínková
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Grulich
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Pátek
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Křístková
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Margit Winkler
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Chemical and Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Petersgasse 14, 8010 Graz, Austria
- Austrian Center of Industrial Biotechnology GmbH, Krenngasse 37, 8010 Graz, Austria
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21
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Yuan JS, Pavlovich MJ, Ragauskas AJ, Han B. Biotechnology for a sustainable future: biomass and beyond. Trends Biotechnol 2022; 40:1395-1398. [PMID: 36273928 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua S Yuan
- Department of Energy, Environmental, and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | | | - Arthur J Ragauskas
- Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Center for Renewable Carbon, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Buxing Han
- Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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