Secondary metabolites, particularly terpenoids, play pivotal roles in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food additives, serving as both nutraceuticals and therapeutic agents. Limonene, a prominent monoterpene, holds a significant position in the aroma and flavor business, being a key constituent of citrus essential oils. Chemically versatile, limonene is utilized in the production of carvone and finds applications in cleaning products as an eco-friendly solvent. Moreover, limonene continues to witness demand in emerging sectors, such as sustainable biofuels and biomaterials, with its productivity showing promising growth and stability. Microbial production of limonene presents a potential solution to reduce dependence on citrus-based industries and facilitate the production of limonene from readily available basic materials (e.g., glucose, glycerol) often derived from agricultural waste products. A diverse array of microbial hosts has been harnessed for the synthesis of limonene. Metabolic engineering strategies, including the overexpression of rate-limiting enzymes and suppression of inhibitory enzymes associated with limonene production, have demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing limonene titers. This review aims to provide an insightful overview of the current landscape of metabolic remodeling and the myriad strategies employed to augment limonene productivity. Additionally, it delves into the various tools and methodologies employed for limonene extraction, recovery, and comprehensive qualitative and quantitative assessments post-microbial production.
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