Abstract

Enzymes, also known as biocatalysts, display vital properties like high substrate specificity, an eco-friendly nature, low energy inputs, and cost-effectiveness. Among their numerous known applications, enzymes that can target biofilms or their components are increasingly being investigated for their anti-biofouling action, particularly in healthcare, food manufacturing units and environmental applications. Enzymes can target biofilms at different levels like during the attachment of microorganisms, formation of exopolymeric substances (EPS), and their disruption thereafter. In this regard, a consortium of carbohydrases that can target heterogeneous polysaccharides present in the EPS matrix may provide an effective alternative to conventional chemical anti-biofouling methods. Further, for complete annihilation of biofilms, enzymes can be used alone or in conjunction with other antimicrobial agents. Enzymes hold the promise to replace the conventional methods with greener, more economical, and more efficient alternatives. The present article explores the potential and future perspectives of using carbohydrases as effective anti-biofilm agents.

摘要

酶，也称为生物催化剂，具有重要的特性，如高底物特异性、环保性质、低能量输入和成本效益。在其众多已知应用中，可以针对生物膜或其成分的酶因其抗生物污染作用而受到越来越多的研究，特别是在医疗保健、食品制造单位和环境应用中。酶可以在不同水平上靶向生物膜，例如在微生物附着期间、外聚合物 (EPS) 的形成以及其后的破坏期间。在这方面，可以靶向 EPS 基质中存在的异质多糖的糖酶联合体可以提供传统化学抗生物污染方法的有效替代方法。此外，为了完全消灭生物膜，酶可以单独使用或与其他抗微生物剂结合使用。酶有望用更环保、更经济、更高效的替代品取代传统方法。本文探讨了使用糖酶作为有效的抗生物膜剂的潜力和未来前景。