Microbial Conversion of Biomass

Microbial conversion of biomass is a natural process of transformation of biological resources into energy and bioproducts. Lignocellulosic and starchy biomasses are among the most abundant and cheapest feedstocks for this purpose. The highlighted biomasses are rich in polysaccharides such as cellulose, hemicellulose, amylose, and amylopectin. The depolymerization and bioconversion of these polysaccharides through the biological route go naturally via the enzymatic catalysis promoted by the secretome of natural microorganisms. The total decomposition of the above-mentioned polysaccharides requires the combined action of a set of enzymes, mostly hydrolases, with synergistic and complementary activities. This chapter will present the main enzymes responsible for the breakdown of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and starch, as well as their catalytic action and products.