A revised model of lignin-polysaccharide packing and secondary cell wall architecture shows that lignin has limited contact with cellulose inside a plant. Source: Tuo Wang, Louisiana State University

Delving into the molecular structure of corn might not sound like the most fascinating research, but such a study conducted by scientists from Louisiana State University, Florida’s National High Magnetic Field Laboratory and Pennsylvania State University could have implications for more efficient ethanol production.

About one-third of all U.S. corn production is allocated to the manufacture of ethanol, which is commonly blended with transportation fuels. The lignin component of plants presents a challenge to biofuel synthesis because it prevents sugar from being converted to ethanol. Researchers previously believed cellulose was connected directly to lignin, but the new research based on solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy shows that lignin has limited contact with cellulose. Xylan, a complex carbohydrate, was instead observed to connect cellulose and lignin.

Analysis of rice, switchgrass and Arabidopsis, a type of rockcress, revealed molecular structures similar to those of corn. The findings, published in Nature Communications, can lead to improved enzymes and processes to optimize biofuel production.