The researchers looked at how treating corn stover with a mix of NaOH and ozone affects the breakdown of cellulose by enzymes. They found that this treatment combo boosted cellulose breakdown by dismantling lignin into smaller bits. By analyzing the removed lignin, they saw that the treatment broke down the tough structure between lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose, making it easier for enzymes to break down cellulose. This study shows that using NaOH and ozone together can improve the breakdown of cellulose in corn stover, which could help make biofuel production more efficient.