Bacillus subtilis as a robust host for biochemical production utilizing biomass

Bacillus subtilis is regarded as a suitable host for biochemical production owing to its excellent growth and bioresource utilization characteristics. In addition, the distinct endogenous metabolic pathways and the suitability of the heterologous pathways have made B. subtilis a robust and promising host for producing biochemicals, such as: bioalcohols; bioorganic acids (lactic acids, alpha-ketoglutaric acid, and gamma-aminobutyric acid); biopolymers (poly(gamma-glutamic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and polysaccharides and monosaccharides (N-acetylglucosamine, xylooligosaccharides, and hyaluronic acid)); and bioflocculants. Also for producing oligopeptides and functional peptides, owing to its efficient protein secretion system. Several metabolic and genetic engineering techniques, such as target gene overexpression and inactivation of bypass pathways, have led to the improvement in production titers and product selectivity. In this review article, recent progress in the utilization of robust B. subtilis-based host systems for biomass conversion and biochemical production has been highlighted, and the prospects of such host systems are suggested.

Automated summary

Bacillus subtilis is considered a suitable host for biochemical production due to its excellent growth and bioresource utilization characteristics, as well as the adaptability of endogenous metabolic pathways and heterologous pathways. Its efficient protein secretion system makes it suitable for producing various biochemicals, while metabolic and genetic engineering techniques have improved production titers and product selectivity. This review highlights recent progress in utilizing robust B. subtilis-based host systems for biomass conversion and biochemical production, suggesting promising prospects for such host systems.