Inulinases - a Versatile Tool for Biotechnology

Inulinases are hydrolysis enzymes that act on the β-2,1 linkage of inulin, resulting fructose, glucose and inulooligosaccharides as reaction products. Microorganisms are the best sources for inulinases production, as they are easy to be cultivated and produce high yields of enzymes. Inulinases have a molecular weight over 50.0 kDa, an optimal pH between 4.5-7.0 and an optimal temperature between 30°C and 60°C, depending of their producers, moulds, bacteria or yeasts. Purified enzymes are activated in the presence of some ions (like Ca, K, Na), while other metallic ions act like inhibitors (Mg or Ag). Inulinases are widely used for ultra-high-fructose syrup and oligofructans production from inulin, for bioethanol production from inulin rich feedstock, citric acid, single cell protein and other chemicals obtaining. In this article, inulinases obtaining and their properties characterization, as well as their potential applications are reviewed.