Primary pathways for glucose metabolism were established in the anaerobic rumen fungus Neocallimastix frontalis EB188. This highly capable cellulolytic organism demonstrated a strict anaerobic integration of metabolic pathways. Glycolysis in N. frontalis EB188 was coupled to malate dehydrogenase, ‘malic’ enzyme and specified hydrogenosome reactions. Pyruvate, as in most life forms, was a pivotal compound. The major fermentation products of N. frontalis EB188 were acetate, ethanol and lactate, with the concomitant generation of H2. On the basis of its unique characteristics and streamlined fermentation pathways, it was concluded that N. frontalis EB188 should be an important contributor to programs generating energy and selected chemicals from currently intractable biomass.
