Endo and exoglucanases produced by Penicillium citrinum isolated from Amazon

Background Cellulolytic enzymes (glucohidrolases EC 3.2.1.-) are biocatalizators highly specific. They act in synergy to hydrolyze b-1,4 bonds between monosaccharide units of D-glucose in the cellulose chain releasing its constituents. Cellulases are categorized according to the place they act in the cellulosic fiber. Endoglucanases start hydrolysis, exoglucanases act in the reduced terminal produced by endoglucanases followed by b-glycosidase which act in the product of exoglucanases catalysis releasing glucose monomers. Fungi are considered the best cellulolytic enzyme producers due to its natural cellulases that complete saccharification of lignocellulose. Species of Penicillium have been reported as excellent producers of cellulolytic enzymes when compared to commercial species and strains [1]. Aiming to contribute to biocatalytic processes and obtention of new sources for cellulolytic enzyme, this work has as objective the production of endoglucanases and exoglucanases from Penicillium citrinum isolated from an agro industrial residue in Amazon.