Methanol-based biomanufacturing of fuels and chemicals using native and synthetic methylotrophs

Methanol has recently gained significant attention as a potential carbon substrate for the production of fuels and chemicals, owing to its high degree of reduction, abundance, and low price. Native methylotrophic yeasts and bacteria have been investigated for the production of fuels and chemicals. Alternatively, synthetic methylotrophic strains are also being developed by reconstructing methanol utilization pathways in model microorganisms, such as Escherichia coli. Owing to the complex metabolic pathways, limited availability of genetic tools, and methanol/formaldehyde toxicity, the high-level production of target products for industrial applications are still under development to satisfy commercial feasibility. This article reviews the production of biofuels and chemicals by native and synthetic methylotrophic microorganisms. It also highlights the advantages and limitations of both types of methylotrophs and provides an overview of ways to improve their efficiency for the production of fuels and chemicals from methanol.

Automated summary

Methanol is gaining attention as a potential carbon substrate for the production of fuels and chemicals due to its high reduction degree, abundance, and low price. Both native and synthetic methylotrophic microorganisms have been investigated for the production of biofuels and chemicals. However, the complex metabolic pathways, limited availability of genetic tools, and toxicity issues still pose challenges for achieving high-level production for commercial purposes. This article reviews the production of biofuels and chemicals from methanol by native and synthetic methylotrophs and discusses ways to improve their efficiency.