12: Lignin Biosynthesis and Lignin Manipulation

Many research projects are currently exploring the options for manipulating lignin to allow more efficient biofuel production from plant biomass. The difficulties in degrading lignin arise from the polymer's complicated structure. Efforts to manipulate lignin must achieve the required improved properties for industrial processing without interfering with the polymer's important functions in the plant. This chapter reviews the authors efforts in this area exploring the options for lignin optimization by transgenesis or using natural variation.