Technological road map of Cellulase: A comprehensive outlook to structural, computational, and industrial applications

Abstract

Cellulases, a group of enzymes capable of degrading cellulose, play a crucial role in the bioconversion of cellulosic biomass, making them invaluable in various industries such as biofuels, textiles, paper, laundry, agriculture, textile, food, and beverage. The emerging trends in research and development of cellulase, such as the integration with other enzymes for biomass conversion, exploration of novel cellulolytic microorganisms, and development of improved enzyme engineering and immobilization techniques for improved activity, specificity, and reusability are some of the common highlights among the researchers. The review begins by exploring the structural and functional characteristics of cellulases, including the classification of cellulolytic enzymes based on their mode of action and mechanism. The optimization strategies for cellulase production, including genetic engineering, fermentation strategies, kinetics as well as modelling, and enzyme immobilization techniques, are also reviewed, providing insights into enhancing enzyme efficiency and stability. This review also includes the life cycle and techno-economic assessment of cellulase addressing the issues and challenges related to its scaled-up production and strategies to overcome them are discussed as future prospectives. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.