Xylanases–from Microbial Origin to Industrial Application

Xylanases are in the focus of research due to their potential to replace many current polluting chemical technologies by biochemical conversion. The field of application for xylanases is vast; it comprises industrial applications like wood pulp bio-bleaching, papermaking and bioethanol production. In addition, these enzymes can be applied as additives in food and beverage industry, and animal nutrition. However, considering the potential applications for these enzymes, the market share of xylanases is still low. Thus, the search for promising xylanases which tolerate relevant processing conditions and therefore can be used in industrial settings is an ongoing task. This review provides an overview of the enzymes reported from 2012 to mid 2014. Further, legal restrictions for the use of (genetically modified) organisms and enzymes are considered. This review provides an integrated perspective on the potential of specific xylanases for industrial applications.