Advances in synthetic methanotrophy for sustainable C1 bioconversion

Methane (CH4) represents an abundant source of carbon and energy with significant potential for sustainable biotechnological processes. For efficient bioconversion of CH4 into value-added products, synthetic methanotrophy has emerged as a promising strategy, enabling the rational design of engineered microbial systems. In this review, we highlight recent advances in CH4-based bioprocesses, covering the metabolic design of synthetic methanotrophs and optimization of bioreactor systems adapted for gas fermentation. A comparative analysis of key CH4-converting enzymes is provided, with particular emphasis on soluble methane monooxygenase and its heterologous production in industrial chassis. Recent progress in modular one-carbon (C1)-pathway engineering accelerates enzyme optimization and highlights synthetic methylotrophy as a prerequisite for robust synthetic methanotrophy. Collectively, these advances establish a foundation for scalable, efficient, and sustainable CH4-based biotechnological processes.