1School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Fujian 361102, China
2Technology Center, China Tobacco Fujian Industrial Co. Ltd., Xiamen 361000, Fujian, China
3College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Fujian 361005, China
4Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Heilongjiang 150040, China
5Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Jiangsu 214122, China
6These authors contributed equally to this work
| Received 14 Nov 2023 |
Accepted 20 Dec 2023 |
Published 22 Jan 2024 |
Lignin is one of the most widespread organic compounds found on earth, boasting a wealth of aromatic molecules. The use of lignin feedstock for biochemical productions is of great importance for achieving “carbon neutrality.” In recent years, a strategy for lignin valorization known as the “bio-funnel” has been proposed as a means to generate a variety of commercially valuable chemicals from lignin-derived compounds. The implementation of biocatalysis and metabolic engineering techniques has substantially advanced the biotransformation of depolymerized lignin into chemicals and materials within the supply chain. In this review, we present an overview of the latest advancements in microbial upcycling of depolymerized lignin into value-added chemicals. Besides, the review provides insights into the problems facing current biological lignin valorization while proposing further research directions to improve these technologies for the extensive accomplishment of the lignin upcycling.
