Lignocellulosic Biomass and Enzymes: Fundamentals, Emerging Technologies, and Applications

Lignocelluloses are complex plant polysaccharides made of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose, and products made from these components find immense market potential. They can be effectively valorized to products related to bioenergy, bioplastics, food and nutrition, medication delivery systems, and other elements. Significant sources of lignocellulosic biomass include sugarcane bagasse, corn cob, rice straw, potato haulms, cocoa pods, etc. Enzyme-based valorization processes find immense potential, as they are eco-friendly and sustainable. A few prominent enzymes being used in the process, include hemicellulases (3.2.1.X), ligninases (EC 1.11.1.14), cellulases (EC 3.2.1.X), etc. These enzymes can be obtained from a diverse group of microorganisms and may be utilized in various industrial processes. The present review accounts for prominent lignocellulolytic enzymes, microbes producing these enzymes and their specific industrial applications. The review also highlights advances in enzyme production strategies and their production processes.