Current industrial applications of microbial transglutaminase: A review

Transglutaminases are commonly used in a number of manufacturing operations, including the food and pharmaceutical industry, owing to their protein cross-linking properties. Transglutaminases derived from animal tissues and lungs, which were the first origins of this enzyme, are being substituted out in preference of microbial sources, which are less expensive and simpler to generate and purify. Following the identification of microbial transglutaminase (MTGase), the enzyme was formulated for industrial purposes using a conventional fermentation process based on the bacterium S. mobaraensis. Many trials have been conducted in this area in order to improve enzyme efficiency for commercial purposes. Several hosts microorganisms such as E. coli, Y. lipolytica, S. lividans, P. pastoris and C. glutamicum gene expression studies were conducted for transglutaminase production. This study reflects on the MTGase application in two broad industries: food and biotechnology. The usage of mTGase is presented for many food classes, highlighting implementation possibilities and obstacles to further enhance end-product efficiency. Few applications in the textile and leather industry, as well as applications in the PEGylation reaction, the development of antibody drug conjugates, and regenerative medicine, are also addressed.