Endo 1,4-β-d- xylanases (EC3.2.1.8) are one of the key lignocellulose hydrolyzing enzymes. Xylan, which is present in copious amounts on earth, forms the primary substrate of endo-xylanases which can unchain the constituent monosaccharides linked via β-1,4 glycosidic bonds from the xylan backbone. Researchers have shown keen interest in the xylanases belonging to glycoside hydrolase families 10 and 11 whereas those placed in other GH families are yet to be investigated. Various microbes such as bacteria and fungi harbor these enzymes for the metabolism of their lignocellulose fibers. These microbes can be used as miniature biofactories of xylanase enzymes for a plethora of environmentally benign applications in pulp and paper industry, biofuel production and for improving the quality of food in bread baking and fruit juice industry. This review highlights the potential of microbes in production of xylanase for industrial biotechnology. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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