Metagenomics: adding new dimensions in bioeconomy

The ever-increasing population and its high energy demand had encumbered the existing natural resources and intensify the research on finding sustainable alternatives such as bioenergy paradigm that escalates the bioeconomy. The utilization of ubiquitous lignocellulosic biomass paved the way for the development of biorefineries for the production of biofuels and value-added products. However, this road is a quite arduous as currently available natural system is not capable enough of surmounting all tasks of degrading complex lignocellulosic biomass. The advent of next generation sequencing such as metagenomics revolutionize the exploration of unseen majority from diverse environments. This approach provides direct access of bioactive prospects and in-depth characterization of genome of microbes. The current exploration of novel enzymes and host systems through metagenomic approaches opens a pandora's box for enhancing the bioenergy sector that plays considerable role in bioeconomy. As we are moving in the era of sustainable development thus advanced sequencing methodologies, algorithms, bioinformatic software's have been continuously developed for more comprehensive downstream analysis of metagenome. There is growing need for establishing circular economy that completely relies on advanced bioprocessing steps. Therefore, this review highlights some glimpses about current execution of metagenomic approaches and propose a futuristic model for the development of circular economy.

Automated summary

Rapid population growth and high energy demands have led to increased research on sustainable alternatives in the bioenergy sector. Utilizing lignocellulosic biomass for biofuels has opened new possibilities, but challenges remain in breaking down complex biomass. Next generation sequencing like metagenomics allows for exploration of unknown microbiomes and discovery of novel enzymes. This approach enhances the bioenergy sector and plays a crucial role in the bioeconomy.