Genetic Modification of Biomass to Alter Lignin Content and Structure

The transition from fossil fuels to more renewable sources of energy requires dedicated lignocellulosic feedstocks with desirable traits. The structural diversity and complexity of cell walls cause technological and scientific bottlenecks in the efficient utilization of plant biomass. The relative composition and content of the major cell wall components such as cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin determines the downstream utility of plant biomass. Lignin in the secondary cell walls is a major hindrance in the effective processing of lignocellulosic biomass. Strategies for altering the lignin profile of biomass crops through targeted manipulation of lignin biosynthetic genes using novel genetic approaches can facilitate biomass processing. Tissue specific expressions of genes, transcriptional regulation of lignin biosynthesis, and novel approaches like genome editing can aid in improving cell wall composition and plant architecture.