Feasibility Assessment for the Use of Cellulase in Biomass Conversion for Human Application

摘要

The potential of fungal cellulases to release glucose from cellulose in the human gut has been evaluated. Cellulase stability in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids has been investigated and the beneficial effect on stability of neutralizing the gastric fluid (e.g., with antacid) was modeled. Cellulose conversion to soluble sugars by different cellulases under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions was also investigated. Up to 30% conversion of crystalline cellulose is possible under these conditions and over 90% of cellulose hydrolysis can be achieved with other cellulosic substrates. Further evaluation would require better in vitro and/or in vivo models of the GI tract. We provided a report on controlled-release formulation of enzymes and conclude that there is potential for targeted delivery of enzymes and other functional components (e.g., peptides, probiotics, prebiotics, etc.) to the GI tract. There is potential for enhanced cellulose hydrolysis via a tailored enzyme mix and/or protein engineering to improve enzyme performance. There is also potential for generation of, or release of, 'functional' carbohydrates using enzyme treatment of food.