Laccase Production from Agro-Industrial Wastes: Utilization of Cassava-Based Lignocellulosic Substrates and Carbon Source Optimization

Abstract

Laccases (EC 1.10.3.2) are multicopper oxidases with a wide range of biotechnological applications in the food processing, bioenergy, bioremediation, and pharmaceutical industries, as they can oxidize a variety of phenolic and non-phenolic substrates.A growing interest in agro-industrial byproducts as alternative raw materials has emerged from the search for affordable, sustainable substrates for laccase production.Peels, stems, and bagasse are examples of cassava-based lignocellulosic wastes that are plentiful and underutilized in tropical locations.They provide a rich source of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin that promote the growth of fungi and the induction of enzymes.The lignocellulose obtained from cassava is highlighted in this review as a potential substrate for laccase Bioproduction in solid-state fermentation systems.Particular emphasis is placed on the optimization of carbon sources, which significantly influence fungal metabolism, enzyme yield, and stability.Studies demonstrate that fine-tuning the ratio of simple sugars to complex lignocellulosic fractions enhances enzyme secretion, while co-substrate supplementation further improves productivity.Additionally, the review explores process parameters such as pH, temperature, and substrate concentration that synergize with carbon source optimization to maximize laccase output.By integrating cassava agro-wastes into enzyme production systems, sustainable valorization pathways can be established, reducing environmental burdens while advancing cost-effective industrial biotechnology.Future perspectives include the application of metabolic engineering, statistical optimization, and scale-up strategies to unlock the full potential of cassava-based residues for commercial laccase production.This narrative review explored laccase bioproduction from agro-industrial wastes with emphasis on the role of cassava-based lignocellulosic substrates and carbon source optimization.