Lipases produced by yeasts : powerful biocatalysts for industrial purposes

Abstract

The term “lipolytic enzymes” refers to the lipases and carboxylic ester hydrolases. Lipase production is widespread among yeasts, but few are capable of producing lipases with interesting characteristics and in sufficient amounts to be industrially useful. The literature concerning lipases produced by Candida rugosa, Yarrowia (Candida) lipolytica, Candida antarctica and other emerging lipaseproducing yeasts is reviewed. The use of recombinant lipases is discussed, with emphasis on the utilization of heterologous expression systems and design of chimeras. Finally, the three approaches that aim the improvement of lipase production or the modification of the substrate selectivity of the enzyme (medium engineering, biocatalyst engineering, and protein engineering) are discussed.