XLEs (Xylan:Lignin etherase)
Tethys has designed and synthesized an indicating model of phenyl ether bonds between lignin and xylan. The model substrate is xylan that has been derivatized with 4-methylumbelliferone at some of the 2’ and 3’ hydroxyl groups.
Bioprospecting experiments have been completed. Potential sources of a specific enzyme have been isolated.
A strong and stable XLE enzyme has been cloned, sequenced and is now patent protected.