Fungal β ‐1,3‐1,4‐glucanases: production, proprieties and biotechnological applications

beta-1,3-1,4-glucanases (or lichenases; EC 3.2.1.73) comprise one of the main enzymes used in industry during recent decades. These enzymes hydrolyze beta-glucans containing beta-1,3 and beta-1,4 linkages, such as cereal beta-glucans and lichenan. The beta-1,3-1,4-glucanases are produced by a variety of bacteria, fungi, plants and animals. A large number of microbial beta-1,3-1,4-glucanases have potential application in industrial processes, such as feed, food and detergent industries. The present review summarizes the available studies with respect to beta-1,3-1,4-glucanases production conditions, enzyme biochemical properties and potential industrial application. (c) 2018 Society of Chemical Industry