Pseudomonas putida KT2440 has emerged as a promising bacterial platform for lignocellulose biotechnology. It is well known for its abilities to degrade polymeric lignin, catabolise and even valorise resulting aromatic chemicals. Its biochemical network has been recently expanded toward utilisation of hemicellulosic pentose sugars and their co-assimilation with lignin aromatics and cellulosic glucose. These engineering endeavours proved the exceptional metabolic flexibility of P. putida. However, its foreseen potential to degrade and use cellulosic and hemicellulosic polymers and oligomers has not yet been explored. In this project, we aim to fill in this knowledge gap. We will adopt cutting-edge genetic engineering tools for the construction of a synthetic P. putida-based consortium capable of the parallel degradation of model (hemi)cellulosic polymers and co-utilisation of the gained oligomeric and monomeric hexose and pentose sugars. Once proven functional, the consortium will become a significant step toward consolidated bioprocessing of lignocellulosic residues by P. putida.

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Masaryk University is committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to improve the conditions and quality of life on our planet by 2030.

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