Progress in one-carbon metabolism: Clostridium in green biomanufacturing

Abstract

The growing emphasis on low-carbon lifestyles and the reduction of carbon emissions has spurred interest in renewable energy-driven biomanufacturing. The third-generation biomanufacturing concept leverages microbial cell factories to convert renewable energy sources, including solar and electrical energy, and inorganic materials, into high-value fuels and chemicals. Microbial CO₂ fixation, with its mild reaction conditions and ability to generate diverse products, is a compelling alternative to traditional chemical catalysis, which is generally characterized by high energy demands, pollution, and limited product diversity. Clostridium stands out among microorganisms for its natural ability to fix carbon via the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway, which enables CO₂, CO, and H₂ to be used for growth and product synthesis. Advances in genetic engineering tools for Clostridium have led to the biosynthesis of over 40 natural compounds, expanding its industrial potential. Furthermore, integrating Clostridium into photoelectrochemical systems has demonstrated the feasibility of coupling microbial fermentation with renewable energy inputs. This review comprehensively examines the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway, related metabolic pathways, and key enzymes, along with the latest progress in genetic modification tools. The potential of Clostridium as a biocatalyst for one-carbon gas conversion and its integration with clean energy technologies is highlighted, offering valuable perspectives for future research.