Bacterial Lipases as Potential Industrial Biocatalysts: An Overview

Lipases are hydrolytic enzymes which hydrolyse triglycerides to free fatty acids and glycerol. These enzymes also catalyse transesterification, aminolysis and acidolysis reactions. Their potential to function in non-aqueous and micro-aqueous environments makes them a versatile biotechnological tool. Lipases are ubiquitous in nature and those from microbes have occupied a prominent position as industrial biocatalysts. Both fungal and bacterial lipases have been exploited by various industries. The chemo, regio and enantio-selectivity of lipases are properties which widen their range of industrial applications. This review was aimed at providing a collective knowledge about bacterial lipases and this article discusses the fundamental details about the sources and cellular location of lipase and the production and purification of the enzyme. Immobilisation and bioimprinting techniques which improve the catalytic efficacy of lipase have also been discussed. This overview also enumerates and describes briefly the extensive applications of bacterial lipases.