exocellulases

Exocellulases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of cellulose, a major component of plant cell walls. These enzymes are produced by various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes, and play a crucial role in the degradation of plant biomass. Exocellulases are classified into two main types based on their mode of action: endoglucanases and exoglucanases. Endoglucanases randomly cleave internal glycosidic bonds in cellulose chains, while exoglucanases hydrolyze cellulose from the non-reducing ends, releasing cellobiose units. These enzymes are of significant interest in biotechnology due to their potential applications in biofuel production, paper recycling, and textile processing. The study of exocellulases involves understanding their structure, mechanism, and the factors that influence their activity and stability. Advances in this field are driven by the need for sustainable and efficient methods for utilizing plant biomass as a renewable resource.