Capybara-Enzyme For Sugarcane Waste Conversion

Date:2 May 2022

Country: Brazil

Application

• Biofuel production: The enzymes can be used to convert lignocellulosic biomass into biofuels, improving efficiency in bioenergy production.
• Biochemical production: The enzymes may facilitate the creation of valuable biochemicals and biomaterials from agroindustrial waste.

Description

Scientists in Brazil discovered two novel families of enzymes in the gut of capybaras that can break down lignocellulosic biomass, such as sugarcane waste, for biofuel and biochemicals production. These enzymes have the potential to accelerate the utilization of agroindustrial waste and reduce the recalcitrance of plant fibers. The interdisciplinary study used advanced techniques, including omics and synchrotron light, to identify and characterize these enzymes. The discovery could contribute to more sustainable biomass conversion processes in industries like biofuel, biochemicals, and food.

Pathway Description:

Researchers identified novel enzyme families that can degrade lignocellulosic biomass. These enzymes were synthesized and characterized using biochemical assays and synchrotron light to determine their atomic structure. The enzymes are then optimized for potential applications in biofuel and biochemical production.