ABSTRACT
Microbial lipases are widely diversified in their enzymatic properties and substrate specificity, which make them very attractive option for industrial applications. Lipases form an integral part of the industries ranging from food, dairy, pharmaceuticals, agrochemical, detergents, polymeric materials, oleochemicals, tea industries, cosmetics, leather and in several bioremediation processes. Lipases are used in the textile industry to assist in the removal of size lubricants, in order to provide a fabric with greater absorbency for improved levelness in dyeing. Biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons in cold environments, including Alpine soils, is a result of indigenous cold-adapted microorganisms' ability to degrade these contaminants. Lipases are utilized in activated sludge and other aerobic waste processes where thin layers of fats must be continuously removed from the surface of aerated tanks to permit oxygen transport. Lipases also serve as biocatalysts for alcoholysis, acidolysis, esterification and aminolysis. The cost of lipase production is a major obstacle in industry for its successful application.
