Lytic cycle

Catalysis

Engineering

Biology

Lignocellulosic biomass

Hydrogen peroxide

Virology

Cellulose

Monooxygenase

Biochemistry

Cytochrome P450

Chemical engineering

Cellulase

Polysaccharide

Biochemical engineering

Biomass (ecology)

Agronomy

Enzyme

Bioprocess

Chemistry

Virus

Enzymatic hydrolysis

ACS Catalysis

The discovery of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) has revolutionized enzymatic processing of polysaccharides, in particular, recalcitrant insoluble polysaccharides, such as cellulose. These monocopper enzymes display intriguing and unprecedented catalytic chemistry, which make them highly valuable in industrial bioprocessing, but also generate considerable challenges in terms of scientific understanding and optimal implementation. One issue of particular interest is the fact that both molecular oxygen and hydrogen peroxide can drive LPMO reactions. Here, we review recent insights into the catalytic mechanism of LPMOs derived from structural, spectroscopic, and functional studies. We then turn to the question of how one can optimally harness the potential of LPMOs in biomass processing, given the current knowledge of their catalytic mechanism. Finally, we review recent, more applied studies that have addressed the importance of LPMOs in enzymatic conversion of lignocellulosic biomass and discuss how the impact of these powerful enzymes could be improved.

Lytic Polysaccharide Monooxygenases in Enzymatic Processing of Lignocellulosic Biomass