Penn State researchers find new means of lignin conversion to improve viability of cellulosic ethanol

Researchers at Penn State University said that they have developed a technique to genetically modify the connections in lignin to make it a more efficient feedstock for biofuels. The technique focuses on inserting a protein between lignin molecules. The protein does not affect plant rigidity or health, but makes it possible to use enzymes that attack proteins, rather than lignins, to break open the lignin polymer and facilitate glucose conversion and ethanol production.

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