Xylose fermentation to bioethanol production using genetic engineering microorganisms

Bioethanol is the most widely used biofuel in transportation all around the world and can be produced from different feedstock types. In the last decade, new technologies have been developed to the production of bioethanol from the hydrolysis of carbohydrates present in the cellulosic and lignocellulosic biomass. Although it is one of the most abundant renewable feedstock, the conversion is more difficult than in the traditional use of sugar and starch. Therefore, the conversion of C5 sugars, such as xylose, has become a focus of research lately. This work will summarize information about bioethanol production from xylose fermentation, the essential and desired requirements of microorganisms, such as native and engineered bacteria and yeast. Limitations and challenges in xylose fermentation using genetic engineering microorganisms will also be discussed.