Xylanase: Applications in Biofuel Production

Background: Xylanase (EC 3.2.1.8, endo-1,4-β-xylan 4-xylanohydrolase) is a naturally occurring enzyme that breaks down hemicellulose by converting β-1,4-xylan into xylooligosaccharides, xylobiose and xylose. It is frequently found in microbes and fungi. Considering the depleting resources of natural petroleum products especially petrol, current status of xylanase especially with respect to structural aspects and its application in biofuel production has been reviewed to show evidences that describe the significance of xylanase in bio-processing industry. Methods: The systematic investigation and web content related to xylanase and its industrial applications are reviewed. Results: Diverse primary studies and structured literature reviews met the review criteria. Studies comprised involvement of xylanase in various commercial applications. It has been reported to play an indispensable role in bio-bleaching of paper pulp, human digestion, baking industry, clarification of fruit juices and beer, malting and in the production of biofuels. Besides, structural aspects indicated importance of carbohydrate binding module in catalysis. Conclusion: The wide usage of xylanase from dough conditioning to biofuel production has garnered commercial importance to the enzyme. Many such explorations are anticipated in near future.