Phanerochaete chrysosporium is the model white rot fungus because of its specialized ability to degrade the abundant aromatic polymer lignin, while leaving the white cellulose nearly untouched. Phanerochaete chrysosporium releases extracellular enzymes to break-up the complex three-dimensional structure of lignin into components that can be utilized by its metabolism. The extracellular enzymes are non-specific oxidizing agents (hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radicals) used to cleave the lignin bonds. [3]
Due to Phanerochaete chrysoporium specialized degradation abilities, extensive research is seeking ways to understand the mechanism in order to enhance the bioremediation of a diverse range of pollutants. Therefore, Phanerochaete chrysosporium is the first member of the Basidiomycetes to have its complete genome sequenced. [6]