Transgenic Sugarcanes Exhibit Improved Glucose Release

The lignocellulosic residue left after sugar extraction is relatively abundant and is already considered as waste material. However, it can still be used as a significant source of biomass for the production of second-generation bioethanol. Researchers from Syracuse University, Queensland University of Technology and the University of Wisconsin overexpressed lignin synthesis regulators, ZmMYB31 and ZmMYB42 from maize, in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum), aiming to improve saccharification of lignocellulosic residue.

A slight difference in height and the number of internodes was noticed from the MYB-overexpressing sugarcane plants compared to the control plants. ZmMYB31 and ZmMYB42 expression also resulted in decreased lignin content in some sugarcane lines. Further analysis revealed that all MYB42 plants showed significant increases in glucose release through enzymatic hydrolysis while only two MYB31 plants released more glucose than control plants.

This study validates the use of MYB transcription factors to improve the production of bioethanol from sugarcane bagasse through improved saccharification of the feedstock.