Selective Adsorption\nof Lignin Peroxidase on Lignin\nfor Biocatalytic Conversion of Poplar Wood Biomass to Value-Added\nChemicals

Lignin-first biorefineries aim to maximize the valorization\nof\nlignin by prioritizing its conversion over other biomass components.\nThis study investigates the selective adsorption of lignin peroxidase\n(LiP) isozymes from white rot fungi Phanerochaete chrysosporium on lignin, aiming to enhance the biocatalytic conversion of poplar\nwood biomass into value-added chemicals. The research focuses on the\nadsorption characteristics of ten recombinant LiP isozymes, particularly\nPcLiP03, which exhibited the highest adsorption capacity on lignin\nand negligible adsorption on cellulose. Adsorption isotherms and structural\nanalyses revealed that hydrophobic interactions significantly contribute\nto the selective adsorption of PcLiP03. Applying PcLiP03 in a continuous\nstirring cell system effectively converted lignin in unpretreated\npoplar wood to 2,6-dimethoxy-1,4-benzoquinone under ambient and mild\nconditions, highlighting its potential for selective lignin depolymerization\nin integrated biorefineries. This work underscores the importance\nof enzyme–substrate interactions and offers a promising approach\nfor more efficient and sustainable biomass utilization.