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Occurrence and function of enzymes for lignocellulose degradation in commercial Agaricus bisporus cultivation

Summary

White button mushrooms grow on compost made from straw and manure through carefully controlled phases. The mushroom uses specific enzymes to break down tough plant materials, especially lignin during the growing mycelium stage, which helps make nutrients available for mushroom formation. Understanding these enzymatic processes could help mushroom farmers improve their production by developing better mushroom strains that degrade plant materials more efficiently.

Background

Agaricus bisporus (white button mushroom) is the most commercially important cultivated edible fungus. It is grown on composted substrates containing cereal straw and animal manure. Understanding the enzymatic mechanisms of lignocellulose degradation during commercial cultivation is important for optimizing production processes.

Objective

This mini-review examines the occurrence and function of enzymes for lignocellulose degradation in A. bisporus cultivation, comparing structural changes in compost with enzyme activities and gene expression across different growth phases.

Results

During vegetative mycelium growth, 40% of lignin was metabolized while less than 6% of xylan was degraded. Xylan became partially water-soluble despite limited degradation. During reproductive fruiting body formation, 40% of total carbohydrates were consumed (50% xylan, 35% glucan). Laccases were the highest expressed lignin-modifying enzymes, comprising 0.7% of fungal biomass.

Conclusion

A. bisporus exhibits tissue-specific regulation of carbohydrate-active enzymes, with lignin degradation primarily occurring during mycelial growth to improve carbohydrate accessibility for fruiting body formation. Selective breeding or genetic modification for enhanced lignin metabolism and mycelial colonization could improve commercial mushroom production.
  • Published in:Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: PMID: 28466110
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