Cellulase

Name:
Cellulase
Detailed information:
An enzyme complex, produced by the fungi Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma viride that is capable of decomposing cellulosic polysaccharides into smaller fragments, primarily glucose. It has been used as a digestive aid in medicine and in the brewing industry. Research has been devoted to experimental application of cellulase to disposal of cellulosic solid wastes. The resulting glucose can be fermented to ethanol, used to grow yeast for animal-feed proteins, or used as a chemical feedstock.Note: Cellulase derived from the thermophilic soil fungus Thielatia terrestris functions at a much higher temperature than other types and is thus much more effective in decomposing cellulose. This indicates its possible use in conversion of biomass to energy. Commercial development of this product is expected.See Biomass.