Utilization of Bacterial Enzymes for Cellulose and Hemicelluloses Degradations: Medical and Industrial Benefits

Abstract

Cellulose and hemicellulose, which are essential structural components of plant cell walls, are key renewable resources for various biotechnological applications. Bacterial enzymes can degrade these polysaccharides and have emerged as efficient, eco-friendly alternatives to chemical methods, offering significant advantages in industrial processes and medical therapies. This review explores bacterial enzymes, such as cellulases and hemicellulases, which break down cellulose and hemicellulose—two major components of plant cell walls—and their mechanisms of action in both industrial and medical applications. These enzymes offer an eco-friendly alternative to chemical processes, contributing significantly to sustainability by reducing chemical usage and improving biofuel yields. Beyond industrial applications, bacterial enzymes contribute to medical innovations such as targeted drug delivery systems and wound healing, with potential for treating chronic diseases like diabetes and inflammatory bowel disorders. These are currently being tested in clinical settings to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Advances in synthetic biology, which involves designing new biological parts and systems, enzyme engineering, the modification of enzymes to improve their function, and microbial consortia design have further enhanced the efficiency and versatility of these enzymes, making them indispensable in modern biotechnology. Future research focusing on optimizing enzyme stability, catalytic efficiency, and substrate specificity will drive innovations in both industrial sustainability and transformative medical applications.