APPLICATION OF FUNGAL XYLANASE IN THE VALORIZATION OF LIGNOCELLULOSIC BIOMASS FOR GENERATING VALUE-ADDED PRODUCTS

Abstract

This invention provides a method for producing fungal xylanase from locally isolated strains, optimized for high-yield enzyme production. The xylanase is applied to lignocellulosic biomass for hydrolysis, producing fermentable sugars and biofuels. This scalable, cost-effective approach promotes sustainable bioeconomy practices by utilizing agricultural residues and reducing reliance on chemical pretreatment methods.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to biotechnology and biorefinery applications, focusing on a novel method for fungal xylanase production and its application in the valorization of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB). This process enables the sustainable and efficient production of biofuels, bioethanol, and other value-added products, promoting a circular bioeconomy.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB), including agricultural residues, is an abundant, renewable resource that holds potential for conversion into valuable products. However, effective utilization of LCB is challenged by its complex structure, particularly the hemicellulosic component, which requires pretreatment for efficient breakdown. Xylanases, enzymes that hydrolyze xylan, play a crucial role in the pretreatment process, aiding in the conversion of LCB into fermentable sugars and biofuels. Traditional sources of xylanase are often costly and limited in production efficiency. This invention addresses these challenges by employing fungal xylanase derived from novel fungal strains indigenous to Punjab, India. By optimizing fungal xylanase production, this method provides an economical, scalable, and environmentally friendly approach for LCB valorization. It advances biorefinery applications by facilitating the transformation of waste into bioethanol, xylooligosaccharides, and other high-value products, contributing to sustainable bioeconomy development.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
The invention provides a method for producing fungal xylanase from strains isolated from Punjab soil samples, aimed at efficiently hydrolyzing lignocellulosic biomass. The method encompasses the steps of sampling, isolation, screening, and identification of high xylanase-yielding fungal strains, followed by optimization of the production parameters for maximum enzyme output. This optimized xylanase is then applied in biorefinery processes, specifically in the pretreatment of LCB to produce reducing sugars and other value-added components. The invention offers a scalable, low-cost solution that uses agro-residues, contributing to environmental sustainability and waste valorization.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
FIGURE 1: ILLUSTRATES THE SAMPLING, ISOLATION, AND SCREENING PROCESS FOR IDENTIFYING XYLANASE-PRODUCING FUNGAL STRAINS.
The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a"," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes" and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", "third", and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
The Application of Fungal Xylanase in the Valorization of Lignocellulosic Biomass encompasses a multi-step approach designed to maximize xylanase yield and harness it for efficient biomass pretreatment. The process begins with sampling soil from various locations in Punjab, followed by serial dilution and inoculation on malt extract agar to isolate potential xylanase-producing fungi. Screening of fungal isolates is performed using a Congo red plate assay to identify strains exhibiting the highest xylanase activity. Selected strains undergo morphological and molecular characterization to confirm their identity.
Once a suitable xylanase-producing strain is identified, production is carried out using submerged fermentation in minimal media. Xylan serves as the primary carbon source, while critical factors like pH, temperature, and aeration are optimized using the One Factor at a Time (OFAT) method to achieve maximum enzyme production. The optimization stage also involves adjusting inoculum size and media composition to enhance yield further, ensuring a cost-effective and scalable process.
The crude xylanase produced is subsequently tested for its ability to hydrolyze lignocellulosic biomass, including agricultural residues rich in xylan. This enzymatic hydrolysis process is evaluated by measuring the release of reducing sugars, which are precursors for bioethanol and other bio-products. Advanced analytical techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) are employed to quantify and verify the enzymatic breakdown of xylan in the biomass.
The invention demonstrates potential applications in the biorefinery industry, offering a viable alternative to chemical pretreatment methods. By converting LCB into fermentable sugars and other valuable by-products, the invention supports sustainable agriculture and promotes a circular bioeconomy, reducing environmental impact and contributing to renewable energy production.
, Claims:1. A method for producing fungal xylanase, comprising the steps of sampling, isolating, screening, and identifying xylanase-producing fungal strains from soil indigenous to Punjab, India.
2. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the fungal xylanase is produced using submerged fermentation with xylan as the primary carbon source, optimized for maximum enzyme yield.
3. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the produced fungal xylanase is applied in the hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) to produce reducing sugars and other fermentable products.
4. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein optimization of production parameters includes adjusting pH, inoculum size, temperature, and aeration to enhance xylanase yield.
5. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the hydrolyzed LCB is further processed in a biorefinery setup to produce biofuels, bioethanol, and xylooligosaccharides.
6. The method as claimed in Claim 1, wherein advanced analytical methods such as FTIR and HPLC are used to monitor xylanase activity and sugar production during the hydrolysis process.

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