Structure-function studies of enzymes cleaving covalent bonds between lignin and hemicelluloses

The cell wall provides both protection and structural support to plants. The mechanical strength of the cell wall stems from a complex network of different cell wall polymers – cellulose, different hemicelluloses, and lignin. During lignification of the cell wall, covalent bonds are formed between lignin and hemicelluloses, which restricts degradation, both for microorganisms and industrial processes. A type of enzyme able to cleave these lignin-hemicellulose bonds has recently been discovered, but to properly utilize the enzymes, detailed biochemical and structural information is necessary. In this project, we use biochemical methods in connection to X-ray crystallography to shed light on the enzyme action on the atom scale.  

Partner organizations

• University of Copenhagen (Academic, Denmark)