Industrial uses of phospholipases: current state and future applications

Phospholipids play a central role in all living organisms. Phospholipases, the enzymes aimed at modifying phospholipids, are consequently widespread in nature and play diverse roles, from lipid metabolism and cellular signaling in eukaryotes to virulence and nutrient acquisition in microbes. Phospholipases catalyze the hydrolysis of one or more ester or phosphodiester bonds of glycerophospholipids. The use of phospholipases with industrial purposes has constantly increased over the last 30 years. This demand is rapidly growing given the ongoing improvements in protein engineering and the reduction of enzymes manufacturing costs, making them suitable for industrial use. Here, a general overview of phopholipases A, B, C, and D and their industrial application is presented along with potential new uses for these enzymes. We draw attention to commercial phospholipases used to improve the emulsifying properties of products in the baking, egg, and dairy industries. On the other hand, the improvement of oil degumming by phospholipases is thoroughly analyzed. Moreover, recent developments in enzymatic biodiesel production and the use of phospholipases for the synthesis of phospholipids with pharmaceutical or nutritional value are reviewed.