Microorganisms such as the white-rot fungi degrade lignin, a major component of plant cell walls, via extracellular enzymes. A new study identified additional microorganisms that may utilize new and previously unidentified enzymes for the degradation of lignin-based compounds. (IMAGE)

Tokyo University of Science

Microorganisms such as the white-rot fungi degrade lignin, a major component of plant cell walls, via extracellular enzymes. A new study identified additional microorganisms that may utilize new and previously unidentified enzymes for the degradation of lignin-based compounds.

Caption

Enzymatic Degradation of Lignin: Microorganisms at Work

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Creative Commons: "Lignin munchers" by Natuvore

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