Enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis of rice straw by removal of phenolic compounds using a novel laccase from yeast Yarrowia lipolytica

► The paper reports a novel laccase from the isolated yeast, Yarrowia lipolytica. ► The laccase exhibits a higher catalytic efficiency than any reported enzymes. ► Removal of free phenolic compounds by the laccase reduces inhibition of cellulase. ► Pretreatment with the laccase enhances saccharification yield.