Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

Pectinase is a collective term that refers to a group of enzymes that degrade pectic substances in the cell wall of higher plants. The pectinase enzyme is broadly classified into two types on the basis of their mode of action: Esterase and Depolymerases. Pectin esterase catalyses the de-esterification of the methoxyl group of pectin, forming pectic acid. While, depolymerases act on pectic substances either by hydrolysis or by trans-elimination lysis. Pectinases hold a leading position among the commercially produced industrial enzymes. Pectinolytic enzymes are naturally produced by many organisms like bacteria, fungi, yeasts, insects, nematodes, protozoan and plants. This chapter discusses types of naturally occurring pectic substances, pectinolytic enzymes, their classification, properties, production and their applications in different industrial sectors.

Keywords: pectin, pectic substances, pectinases, pectinolytic enzymes, pectin esterase