Commercial Applications of Microbial Enzymes

Abstract

Enzymes are widely used nowadays in industrial and household catalysis. Enzyme-catalysed conversions occur in minutes or even in seconds. Further, they catalyse reactions which are difficult to perform by chemical methods, like the enantio- or regioselective hydrolysis or addition of chiral groups. In industries, enzymes are steadily replacing chemical reactions since they are greener and eco-friendly. Enzymes produce fewer by-products, consume less energy, reduce environmental pollution and add improved value to the products. Consequently, it is not surprising to notice the blooming global enzyme market. Major factors driving the market growth of enzymes are cost efficiency, stringent enforcement of environmental regulations in many countries and growing interest among end users. Microbes are an inexhaustible source of enzymes which have numerous advantages with regard to their use in industrial applications, as compared to conventional methods using chemicals. They are good catalysts, increase the rate of reactions and work optimally under given environmental conditions and scaling up of the production process is possible by genetic manipulation. Recombinant DNA technology and protein engineering open up the possibilities of obtaining novel products. Industries utilising microbial enzymes are food, pharmaceutical, detergent, leather, waste management and many others. This chapter discusses the commercial applications of various microbial enzymes and also highlights the sources and nature of industrial applications.