Analysis of lignin content and bioinformatics of lignin overexpression for the quality improvement of Candlenut wood (Aleurites moluccana)

Abstract

Abstract Wood is a valuable lignocellulosic resource used in construction, plywood, pulp, and paper. However, forest degradation makes obtaining high-quality wood for building materials challenging. Despite the generally lower quality, community candlenut woods show potential as an alternative commercial raw material. This study aimed to improve wood quality by engineering a biosynthetic pathway for chemical components, specifically through lignin overexpression using the 4CL gene in candlenut wood. The study examined the effects of different growing environments, particularly altitudes, on lignin content and primary design suitability. Tree samples from various heights were analysed for lignin content using chemical analysis. Candlenut DNA was separated and amplified using PCR with 4CL gene primers. Results showed an average lignin content of 18.4%, with no significant difference across different altitudes, classifying the lignin content as low. Due to unsuccessful amplification, the 4CL gene could not be used as a candidate for lignin enhancement in candlenut wood.

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