Laccase Production from Agro-Industrial Wastes: Utilization of Cassava-Based Lignocellulosic Substrates and Carbon Source Optimization

Laccases (EC 1.10.3.2) are multicopper oxidases with a wide range of biotechnological applications in the food processing, bioenergy, bioremediation, and pharmaceutical industries, as they can oxidize a variety of phenolic and non-phenolic substrates. A growing interest in agro-industrial byproducts as alternative raw materials has emerged from the search for affordable, sustainable substrates for laccase production. Peels, stems, and bagasse are examples of cassava-based lignocellulosic wastes that are plentiful and underutilized in tropical locations. They provide a rich source of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin that promote the growth of fungi and the induction of enzymes. The lignocellulose obtained from cassava is highlighted in this review as a potential substrate for laccase Bioproduction in solid-state fermentation systems. Particular emphasis is placed on the optimization of carbon sources, which significantly influence fungal metabolism, enzyme yield, and stability. Studies demonstrate that fine-tuning the ratio of simple sugars to complex lignocellulosic fractions enhances enzyme secretion, while co-substrate supplementation further improves productivity. Additionally, the review explores process parameters such as pH, temperature, and substrate concentration that synergize with carbon source optimization to maximize laccase output. By integrating cassava agro-wastes into enzyme production systems, sustainable valorization pathways can be established, reducing environmental burdens while advancing cost-effective industrial biotechnology. Future perspectives include the application of metabolic engineering, statistical optimization, and scale-up strategies to unlock the full potential of cassava-based residues for commercial laccase production. This narrative review explored laccase bioproduction from agro-industrial wastes with emphasis on the role of cassava-based lignocellulosic substrates and carbon source optimization.