Convergent evolution in lignin biosynthesis: Tools for re-engineering biomass composition

The plant cell wall component lignin, a complex phenolic polymer, is valued for its energy content, but inhibits biomass breakdown for cellulosic ethanol. Investigators have now identified an alternative pathway for synthesis of syringyl lignin in the lycophyte Selaginella moellendorffii. This pathway, a likely example of convergent evolution, could be used to alter lignin composition in transgenic plants.

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