Structure-function studies of enzymes cleaving covalent bonds between lignin and hemicelluloses
Research Project, 2016
– 2021
The cell wall provides both protection and structural support to plants. The mechanical strength of the cell wall stems from a complex network of different cell wall polymers – cellulose, different hemicelluloses, and lignin. During lignification of the cell wall, covalent bonds are formed between lignin and hemicelluloses, which restricts degradation, both for microorganisms and industrial processes. A type of enzyme able to cleave these lignin-hemicellulose bonds has recently been discovered, but to properly utilize the enzymes, detailed biochemical and structural information is necessary. In this project, we use biochemical methods in connection to X-ray crystallography to shed light on the enzyme action on the atom scale.
Participants
Johan Larsbrink (contact)
Chalmers, Life Sciences, Industrial Biotechnology
Daniel Krska
Chalmers, Life Sciences, Industrial Biotechnology
Scott Mazurkewich
Chalmers, Life Sciences, Industrial Biotechnology
Andrea Seveso
Chalmers, Life Sciences, Industrial Biotechnology
Collaborations
University of Copenhagen
Köbenhavn, Denmark
Funding
Novo Nordisk Foundation
Project ID: NNF17OC0027698
Funding Chalmers participation during 2018–2020
Interreg
Project ID: CTH-010
Funding Chalmers participation during 2017–2018
Interreg
Project ID: CTH-003
Funding Chalmers participation during 2016–2017
Related Areas of Advance and Infrastructure
Sustainable development
Driving Forces
Energy
Areas of Advance
Life Science Engineering (2010-2018)
Areas of Advance
Materials Science
Areas of Advance