nanoparticles (NPs, 4.0 g/L) were applied for degradation of lignin from raw corn cob (CC) biomass for generation of cellulose-hemicellulose fractions amenable towards Clostridium cellulovorans during fermentation process. NP-treated biomass exhibited 43.26 % lignin removal from raw CC which was further employed for hydrogen fermentation by C. cellulovorans through CBP method. The strain yielded maximum 78.45 mL of cumulative hydrogen with hydrogen production rate of 1.55 mL/h using NP-treated CC. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on enhanced hydrogen production using NP-treated CC biomass in single pot fermentation which can prove to be a simpler, easier, and more economical process.

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) has emerged as a promising non-natural cofactor with significant potential to transform biocatalysis, synthetic biology, and therapeutic applications. By modulating NAD⁺ metabolism, NMN offers unique advantages in enzymatic reactions, metabolic engineering, and regenerative medicine. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of NMN’s biochemical properties, mechanisms of action, and diverse applications. Emphasis is placed on its role in addressing challenges in multi-enzyme cascades, biofuel production, and the synthesis of high-value chemicals. The paper also highlights critical research gaps, including the need for scalable NMN synthesis methods, improved integration into enzymatic systems, and comprehensive toxicity studies for therapeutic use. Emerging technologies such as AI-driven enzyme design and CRISPR-based genome engineering are discussed as transformative tools for optimizing NMN-dependent pathways. Furthermore, the synergistic potential of NMN with synthetic biology innovations, such as cell-free systems and dynamic regulatory networks, is explored, paving the way for precise and modular biotechnological solutions. Looking forward, NMN’s versatility as a cofactor positions it as a pivotal tool in advancing sustainable bioprocessing and precision medicine. Addressing current limitations through interdisciplinary approaches will enable NMN to redefine the boundaries of metabolic engineering and therapeutic innovation. This review serves as a roadmap for leveraging NMN’s potential across diverse scientific and industrial domains.

Carotenoids are biomolecules naturally produced as secondary metabolites. The scientific interest in microbial carotenoids production is gaining more attraction because of their economic sustainability and cost-effectiveness. This study aimed to define the Paracoccus sp. LL1 carotenoids and fatty acids quali-quantitative profiles under controlled fermentation processes carried out at two different temperatures. Moreover, the whole genome of the selected strain LL1 has been sequenced and analyzed, allowing us to identify the gene clusters involved in carotenoid biosynthesis. The fatty acid profile detected and the genome sequencing allowed to rename the strain investigated Paracoccus marcusii strain LL1. Stearic and vaccenic fatty acids have been detected in the highest percentage as the main cellular membrane fatty acids characteristic of the strain investigated. Whereas, twelve different carotenoids produced by the bacterium investigated have been identified. Among these the most produced was β-carotene, which reached up a final concentration of 0.35±0.01 mg g -1 of dry biomass. Furthermore, Paracoccus sp. LL1 biomass extract was investigated for antibacterial activity against selected strains. This study allowed pointing out the great potential of the wild type bacterium Paracoccus marcusii strain LL1 as a promising β-carotene producer, representing an interesting alternative for natural carotenoids production. • Paracoccus sp. LL1 identification as a new wild-type bacterium for carotenoids production • Paracoccus sp LL1 renamed Paracoccus marcusii strain LL1 • Bacterial β-carotene production through controlled fermentation • Paracoccus marcusii strain LL1carotenoids profile characterization • Paracoccus marcusii strain LL1 cell membrane fatty acids characterization