Time dependence of enzyme synergism during the degradation of model and natural lignocellulosic substrates

Publication date: Available online 25 April 2017 Source:Enzyme and Microbial Technology Author(s): Samkelo Malgas, Mariska Thoresen, J. Susan van Dyk, Brett I. Pletschke Cellulosic ethanol production relies on the biochemical (enzymatic) conversion of lignocellulose to fermentable sugars and ultimately to bioethanol. However, the cost of lignocellulolytic enzymes is a limiting factor in the commercialisation of this technology. This therefore necessitates the optimisation of lignocellulolytic enzyme cocktails through the elucidation of synergistic interactions between enzymes so as to improve lignocellulose hydrolysis and also lower protein loadings in these reactions. However, many factors affect the synergism that occurs between these lignocellulolytic enzymes, such as enzyme ratios, substrate characteristics, substrate loadings, enzyme loadings and time. This review examines the effect of time on the synergistic dynamics between lignocellulolytic enzymes during the hydrolysis of both complex (true) lignocellulosic substrates and model substrates. The effect of sequential and simultaneous application of the lignocellulolytic enzymes on the synergistic dynamics during the hydrolysis of these substrates is also explored in this review. Finally, approaches are further proposed for efficient and synergistic hydrolysis of both complex lignocellulosic substrates and model substrates. With respect to the synergistic enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass, this revie...

Source: Enzyme and Microbial Technology - April 26, 2017 Category: Biotechnology Source Type: research