Alternative biofuel production in non-natural hosts

Global energy and environmental concerns have stimulated increased efforts in synthesizing petroleum-derived products from renewable resources. Biological production of metabolites for fuel is increasingly becoming a feasible, renewable, environmentally sound alternative. However, many of these chemicals are not highly produced in any known native organism. Here we review the current progress of modifying microorganisms with heterogeneous elements for the production of biofuels. This strategy has been extensively employed in a variety of hosts for the development of production of various alcohols, fatty acids, alkenes and alkanes.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (253 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► This review addresses the current progress of modifying microorganisms with heterogenous elements for the production of biofuels. ► First, we summarize the 2 ketoacid-based pathways for C3–C8 alcohols production. ► Second, we summarize the Clostridial pathways for 1-butanol and isopropanol production in non-natural hosts. ► Third, we summarize fatty acids production in Escherichia coli and cyanobacteria. ► Finally, we summarize alkanes and alkenes production in E. coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.