Recent developments in activities, utilization and sources of cellulase

One of the latest sources of alternative energy, bioethanol, has been the focus of modern research, The production of bioethanol is commonly restricted by the activity of cellulase. Therefore, cellulase has become one of the critical issues in the conversion of lignocelluloses to bioethanol. This article is an overview of the sources and factors affecting enzyme activity, as well as methods of evaluation and utilizations of cellulase. We conclude that a combination of cellulases from various strains can enhance hydrolysis of substrates. Large enough amounts of cellobiase or sufficient cellobiase activity can reduce the inhibition to exoglucanase activity of cellobiose. Characterization and exploitation of cellulase should focus on a definite substrate. Promotion and mixed incubation of strains can reduce the cost of industrial utilization of cellulase.