The current strategies and parameters for the enhanced microbial production of 2,3-butanediol

• 2,3-Butanediol (2,3-BD) is a propitious compound with many industrial uses. • 2,3-BD production has always been hampered by low fermentation yields and high production costs. • 2,3-BD production may be enhanced by optimization of culture conditions and use of high-producing strains. • Metabolic engineering tools are currently used to generate high-yielding strains. 2,3-Butanediol (2,3-BD) is a propitious compound with many industrial uses ranging from rubber, fuels, and cosmetics to food additives. Its microbial production has especially attracted as an alternative way to the petroleum-based production. However, 2,3-BD production has always been hampered by low yields and high production costs. The enhanced production of 2,3-butanediol requires screening of the best strains and a systematic optimization of fermentation conditions. Moreover, the metabolic pathway engineering is essential to achieve the best results and minimize the production costs by rendering the strains to use efficiently low cost substrates. This review is to provide up-to-date information on the current strategies and parameters for the enhanced microbial production of 2,3-BD.