Lignin Degradation:A Microbial Approach

Lignin is the most structurally complex carbohydrate consisting of various bilogically stable linkages. It has been estimated that lignin constitutes 30-35% of the earth's non-fossil organic carbon. Lignin degradation plays an important role in carbon recycling and biofuel production. Industrial waste treatment through chemical approaches is not only expensive but also toxic to environment. Lignin degrading enzymes from microbes contribute a major role in the degradation of industrial effluents. Fungi and bacteria are good sources of effluent hydrolyzing enzymes such as lignin peroxidase, laccase, manganese peroxidase etc. However, there are very few research activities regarding role of microbes in lignin degradation. Lignin hydrolysis using various microbes with eco-friendly approach is a challenge for researchers globally. Therefore, in order to reduce the adverse effect of industrial effluent on environment, the quest for inexpensive, sustainable and eco-friendly approach is indispensable. The current review focuses to enlighten a comprehensive and broad analysis of lignin degradation ability of various fungal and bacterial sources using their ligninolytic machinery system.