Glucanases

Glucanases are hydrolytic enzymes that are involved in the breakdown and utilization of ?-1,3 glucans (polysaccharides). They are produced by microorganisms, plants, and animals and play a critical role in many aspects of carbohydrate metabolism. In humans, glucanases are an important tool for digestion and are also important for the production of therapeutic drugs, as well as for bioremediation purposes. Glucanases have potential to biodegrade environmental pollutants in wastewater and contaminated soil. They can also be used to degrade lignocellulosic material for the production of biofuels.