Author:
Sun Manman,Gao Alex Xiong,Liu Xiuxia,Bai Zhonghu,Wang Peng,Ledesma-Amaro Rodrigo
Abstract
AbstractIndustrial biotechnology heavily relies on the microbial conversion of carbohydrate substrates derived from sugar- or starch-rich crops. This dependency poses significant challenges in the face of a rising population and food scarcity. Consequently, exploring renewable, non-competing carbon sources for sustainable bioprocessing becomes increasingly important. Ethanol, a key C2 feedstock, presents a promising alternative, especially for producing acetyl-CoA derivatives. In this review, we offer an in-depth analysis of ethanol's potential as an alternative carbon source, summarizing its distinctive characteristics when utilized by microbes, microbial ethanol metabolism pathway, and microbial responses and tolerance mechanisms to ethanol stress. We provide an update on recent progress in ethanol-based biomanufacturing and ethanol biosynthesis, discuss current challenges, and outline potential research directions to guide future advancements in this field. The insights presented here could serve as valuable theoretical support for researchers and industry professionals seeking to harness ethanol's potential for the production of high-value products.
Graphic Abstract
Funder
the National Key Research and Development Program of China
the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities
the Major Projects of Science and Technology of Anhui Province
BBSRC
European Research Council
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
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