Lignin Degradation by Fungal Pretreatment: A Review

Lignin is regarded as the most plentiful aromatic polymer contains both non-phenolic and phenolic structures.It makes the integral part of secondary wall and plays a significant role in water conduction in vascular plants.Many fungi, bacteria and insects have ability to decrease this lignin by producing enzymes.Among these fungi are the major player in degradation of lignin.These fungi produce enzymes such as lignin peroxidases and laccases.The well-known fungi which degrades lignin are white, brown, soft-rot fungi, and deuteromycetes.Currently these fungi are utilized to reduce lignin to produce ecofriendly bioenergy.The primary aim of this paper is to describe the lignin degradation by biological pre-treatment using fungi (white-, brown-soft-rot fungi and molds), as well as biochemical application.Besides, Molecular methods and enzymes regulation engaged in fungal pre-treatment and some of the factors affecting pretreatment will also be briefly discussed.