Biomass pyrolysis-derived aqueous phase as a laccase inducer in Pleurotus ostreatus: laccase production, properties, and applications

The aqueous phase (AP) generated during biomass pyrolysis is often considered a waste product due to its dilute and toxic nature, making it difficult to upgrade. This study explores the potential of using AP as a laccase inducer for the white-rot fungus, Pleorotus ostreatus, and as a mediator in laccase-catalyzed reactions. As an inducer, AP increased laccase production from P. ostreatus to 570 U/g, outperforming copper, a common inducer, by almost 180%. A maximum laccase yield of 955 U/g was ac