Modification of lignin in plants
Thistechnology is comprised of a method for reducing lignin content and alteringlignin composition in plants. Lignin is the second most abundant naturalproduct, contributing 20-30% of tree dry weight. Lignin is physically tough andchemically durable, making it problematic during processes like paperproduction, biomass utilization, and animal consumption. Lignin’s durabilitynecessitates the use of harmful chemicals for its treatment and removal.Reductions in lignin content of plants used as feedstock will lessen thedemands of the animal’s digestive system and decrease the amounts of harmfulwaste products. Any reduction in lignin or improvements to its digestibilitywould be of great economic value to the pulping and biomass industries.
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