From formate oxidation to CO₂ reduction: The role of formate dehydrogenase in sustainable carbon utilization.

The escalation of global climate change and environmental degradation has made it imperative to develop innovative strategies to mitigate carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and enhance its utilization. Formate dehydrogenase (FDH) is a key enzyme capable of catalyzing the reversible conversion between CO₂ and formate. Due to its critical role in sustainable carbon recycling processes, FDH has garnered significant attention in recent times. This review offers a thorough analysis of FDH, emphasizing its dual function of converting one carbon (C1) substrates and providing reducing power. Recent advancements in utilizing FDH for CO₂ reduction, both in vitro and in vivo, underscoring its potential to facilitate carbon capture and conversion under mild conditions. Additionally, this review discusses the limitations of FDH in C1 metabolism and proposes targeted strategies to address these challenges. Future research should focus on achieving a balance between energy production and carbon assimilation, mediated by FDH activity. Ultimately, this work aims to offer both theoretical insights and practical guidance, advancing microbial engineering for CO₂ reduction and resource recycling, and contributing to the development of sustainable carbon utilization technologies.