DefinePK

Abstract

Lipases (Triacylglycerol acylhydrolases E.C.3.1.1.3) are ubiquitous enzymes which catalyze the hydrolysis of triacylglycerols to glycerols and free fatty acids. Lipolytic reactions occur at the lipid-water interface, where lipolytic substrates usually form equilibrium between monomeric, micellar and emulsified states. Due to their high enantioselective and regioselective nature, lipases have been utilized for the resolution of chiral drugs (Flurbiprofen, Naproxen, Ibuprofen and Suprofen) fat modification, fragrance development in dairy product and for the synthesis of personal care product and cosmetics. In addition to these, lipases find use in variety of biotechnological fields such as cheese ripening, detergent, biosurfactant, bioremediation, polymer synthesis, agrochemicals and perfumery and in paper and pulp industry. Lipases are also being used for the development of biosensors for the qualitative determination of triacylglycerols. Nowadays, novel lipases are being developed by site directed mutagenesis and recombinant DNA technology to improve their selectivity and stability.