Enzymes for lignocellulosic biomass polysaccharide valorization and production of nanomaterials

A current fossil resource-based world economy is in translation to a sustainable, biobased model which requires a replacement of nonrenewable resources with the renewable ones. The lignocellulosic biomass because of its abundance and availability around the globe is one of the most important renewable sources of carbon on Earth. Here, we discuss recent discoveries and studies of the molecular mechanisms of the enzymes used in lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysis, valorization, and transformation into biofuels and sustainable materials. Special attention is given to progress in enzymatic hydrolysis of recalcitrant plant polysaccharides by glycoside hydrolases and their oxidation by lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases, as well as to application of those enzymes for the production of nanoparticles and nanomaterials.