Functional aspects of xylanases toward industrial applications

Abstract

Microbial enzymes are biocatalysts applicable in a number of industries. Their ability to tolerate extreme pH and temperature makes them suitable for various industrial processes. Among a number of microbial enzymes, xylanases have a unique place. Xylanase production is reported in different types of microorganisms like actinomycetes, bacteria, fungi, and some yeast. Different types of xylanases have a conserved catalytic domain which establishes an evolutionary relationship between different xylanase producers. A fungus produces xylanases in a significant amount than bacteria and yeast. These enzymes have been used in several industries, viz., pulp and paper industry, biofuel industry, brewing and baking industry, food and feed industry, and pharmaceutical industry. Application of xylanases in several industries improves quality of different products, i.e., beer, juices, animal feed, baked products, paper, etc. However, a xylanase application particularly in pulp and paper industry is fascinating to the researchers. Thermostable and alkalistable cellulase-free xylanases play a very important role in pulp and paper industry.