Genomic insights and process optimization for comprehensive biovalorization of lignocellulosic waste with microbial consortium

Addressing the significant environmental burden of lignocellulosic waste (LW), this study presented an innovative and sustainable strategy for managing LW, utilizing the high-efficiency microbial consortium MC31, composed of Cellulomonas uda and Pseudomonas citronellolis. Genomic analysis of the consortium members revealed an extensive enzymatic repertoire that provides a mechanistic basis for their robust LW degradation capabilities without the need for chemical pretreatment. By using response surface methodology, the bioconversion process was optimized for rice straw, a model substrate, achieving a 3.78-fold increase in soluble sugar yield and a 1.21-fold increase in waste degradation. The optimal conditions were determined to be 5 % (w/v) substrate loading, 10 % (v/v) inoculum, and 48h of aerobic incubation. This study further demonstrates the applicability of the end-products, as the resulting hydrolysate, rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and citric acid, was successfully repurposed as a microbial growth medium. Additionally, the cellulases present in the hydrolysate were found to be highly stable and active across a wide range of temperatures and pH levels, confirming their industrial relevance. Overall, this work lays a strong foundation by integrating genomic insights with process optimization and end-product utilization, offering a scalable strategy to convert LW into valuable bioresources.