Structure, biosynthesis, and bioengineering of lignocellulose and phenylpropanoidmetabolites for future biorefinery

摘要

It is becoming increasingly important to establish a sustainable society by reducing our heavy reliance on fossil resources. As lignocellulosic biomass represents the most abundant renewable and carbon-neutral resources on earth, technologies to improve their utilizations are key for realizing the goal. In this context, we investigate the structure, biosynthesis and bioengineering of lignocellulose using various model plants and biomass crops. In addition, we are interested in understanding the biosynthesis of plant-derived phenylpropanoid metabolites which display various useful biological activities. Our program typically integrates research ideas and approaches based on chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology.