Acetyl-CoA-derived biofuel and biochemical production in cyanobacteria: a mini review

Cyanobacteria, as photosynthetic bacteria, can generate energy and carbon sources directly from sunlight and atmospheric carbon dioxide. With the aid of genetic engineering, heterologous enzymes and/or pathways have been introduced into cyanobacteria, enabling the production of various biofuels and biochemicals. By utilizing cyanobacteria as production hosts, biofuels and biochemicals can be produced directly from carbon dioxide, and ultimately carbon dioxide fixation by cyanobacteria can help reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration, alleviating global warming and air pollution. In this review, we introduce various biofuels and biochemicals produced, particularly from acetyl-CoA by cyanobacteria, and summarize research strategies that have been made to improve their production. This review will provide comprehensive information and valuable insights into strategies for enhancing cyanobacterial biofuels/chemicals production.