Microbial Enzyme | Cellulase | Laccase | Xylanase | Pectinase | Peroxidase
Cellulase is a group of enzymes that break down cellulose, the main structural component of plant cell walls, into simpler sugars like glucose. It plays an essential role in natural biomass decomposition, industrial processes, and some biotechnological applications.
Scientific Overview
- Source: Produced by fungi (e.g., Trichoderma reesei, Aspergillus niger), bacteria, protozoa, and some animals (like termites).
- Enzyme Complex Includes:
- Endoglucanase – breaks internal bonds in cellulose
- Exoglucanase (cellobiohydrolase) – cleaves off cellobiose units
- β-glucosidase – converts cellobiose into glucose
Applications in Agriculture & Forestry
| Use | Role |
|---|---|
| Composting | Speeds up decomposition of plant material |
| Soil Amendment | Releases nutrients locked in cellulose-rich crop residues |
| Biocontrol | In some formulations, enhances pathogen penetration (e.g., in inoculants) |
| Agarwood Inoculants | May assist in cell wall disruption for better fungal colonization and resin induction |
Industrial Applications
- Biofuel production: Converts biomass into fermentable sugars
- Food industry: Used in fruit juice extraction, coffee bean processing
- Textile and paper: For softening, bio-polishing, and bleaching
- Animal feed: Improves digestibility of plant materials
In Agarwood Cultivation Context
In agarwood production, cellulase can be added as a co-factor or auxiliary enzyme in:
- Fungal inoculant formulations (to help the fungus penetrate xylem)
- Abiotic/biotic stress kits (to help break down parenchymal walls)
- Pre-treatment of trees before Fusarium or BarIno™ product inoculation
Summary
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Hydrolyzes cellulose into glucose |
| Optimal pH | 4.5–6.5 (varies by source) |
| Commercial Forms | Powder, liquid enzyme blends |
| Stability | Sensitive to high temperatures and pH extremes |