The processing of cellulosic plant biomass into ethanol is usually done as a 2-step process involving (1) saccharification (breakdown of cellulose fibrils into simple, soluble sugars, often by enzymes) and (1) fermentation of simple sugars into ethanol by yeast.

An Agricultural Research Service (ARS) microbiologist (Paul Weimer) has found a microorganism which can cut the 2-stage cellulose ethanol production strategy into a single, streamlined process. The potential cost-saving strategy (termed “consolidated bioprocessing”) uses a bacterium, Clostridium thermocellum. This “2 in 1” microorganism possesses the all the enzymes necessary for both saccharification and fermentation in a single reaction system. As an added bonus, the microorganism also produces a value-added, environment friendly but strong “bioadhesive” which could (1) offset the cost of cellulosic ethanol production and (2) “replace up to 70% of the petroleum-based phenol-formaldehyde that is used to manufacture plywood and other pressed-wood products.”.