Nanostructure enzyme assemblies for biomass conversion

Biomass represents a vast resource for production of the world’s fuel and chemical feedstock needs.  The use of enzymes to effect these bioconversions offers an alternative that is potentially more specific and environmentally-friendly than harsher chemical methodologies.  Some species of anaerobic bacteria produce enzyme complexes called cellulosomes which are particularly effective in hydrolyzing biomass into the constituent monomeric sugars.  Inspired by this model, we have designed an artificial cellulosome-like scaffold upon which we can create complexes incorporating a wide variety of enzymes.  Using these customized complexes, we have demonstrated enhanced biomass hydrolysis as well as bioconversion into value-added chemical feedstocks.