Repetitive domestication to enhance butanol tolerance and production in Clostridium acetobutylicum through artificial simulation of bio-evolution

► A novel approach was developed on the basis of dynamics of evolution and selection. ► A butanol-tolerant strain with increased butanol tolerance was obtained. ► Artificial simulation of bio-evolution (ASBE) was employed in biotechnology. ► The efficiency of ASBE was evaluated. ► The relationship between butanol tolerance and ABE production was investigated.