The essential role of plant cell wall degrading enzymes in the success of biorefineries: Current status and future challenges

The viability of cellulosic ethanol depends on the optimal use of biomass component through the biorefinery concept and this requires the integration of unit operations that are involved in the production of fuel and chemicals. In this regard, enzymes are important tools to improve the efficiency and sustainability of a biorefinery process. Therefore, a comprehensive approach and full understanding of the structure and function relationships that are involved in the enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic materials is a fundamental step toward the optimization of these bioconversion processes.