Chapter 2. Production of biofuels from biomass by fungi

Fungal whole cell biocatalysts have been used for the pre-treatment of lignocellulosic biomass, lignocellulosic ethanol fermentation, and enzymatic biodiesel production. Fungal whole cells or enzymes bound to whole cell membrane have significantly reduced the production costs of biocatalysts while also increasing the reusability of biocatalysts. Various strategies based on the advances in genomics and genetic engineering have been developed to improve the biocatalysis efficiency. Genetic engineering of the fungal cells and enzymes via directed evolution have significantly increased the yields and productivity of biofuels in biological processes. Future research on the use of fungal whole cell biocatalysts can lead to a more sustainable production of biofuels, biodiesel and other value-added bioproducts.