Microbial synthesis of poly(epsilon-lysine) and its various applications.
This review article deals with the microbial synthesis, physiochemical properties, and potential applications of poly-epsilon-lysine (epsilon-PL), which is a naturally occurring biomaterial that is water soluble, biodegradable, edible and non-toxic toward humans and the environment. The potential applications of epsilon-PL as food preservatives, emulsifying agent, dietary agent, biodegradable fibers, highly water absorbable hydrogels, drug carriers, anticancer agent enhancer, biochip coatings in the fields of food, medicine, agriculture and electronics are also discussed in this review.
Shih
Ing-Lung
IL
Department of Environmental Engineering, Da-Yeh University, 112 Shan-Jiau Road, Chang-Hwa 51505, Taiwan. ils@mail.dyu.edu.tw
Shen
Ming-Haw
MH
Van
Yi-Tsong
YT
D001419:Bacteria / Q000378:metabolism*; D001673:Biodegradation, Environmental; D001709:Biotechnology / Q000379:methods; D055598:Chemical Phenomena; D002627:Chemistry, Physical; D011107:Polylysine / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D012995:Solubility; D014867:Water / Q000737:chemistry
D014867:Water; D011107:Polylysine