Polysaccharide utilization loci-driven enzyme discovery reveals BD-FAE: a bifunctional feruloyl and acetyl xylan esterase active on complex natural xylans.

The bifunctional CE, BD-FAE, represents a new candidate for biomass processing given its capacity to remove ferulic acid and acetic acid from natural corn and birchwood xylan substrates, respectively. Its detailed biochemical characterization and solved crystal structure add to the toolbox of enzymes for biomass valorization as well as structural information to inform the classification of new CEs.