Chapter 25 - Biosynthesis of polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA), a biodegradable and economical polyamide biopolymer for industrial applications

Divakar Dahiya, Rajen Chettri, Poonam Singh Nigam

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

9 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

There are several research papers published in scientific journals on the subject of polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA or PGA). PGA has been described for its varied biochemical properties, sanctioning it to play different roles, depending on the microorganism used for its biosynthesis, and also the environmental and cultural conditions applied in the process of its production. PGA has numerous potential applications like a thickener, cryoprotectant, humectant, drug carrier, biological adhesive, flocculants or heavy metal absorbent, etc. Due to its property of biodegradability, it could have potential applications in the cosmetics, medicine, and food and water treatments. This chapter overviews and describes the knowledge available on its production. A search of bibliographic references for peer-reviewed research literature was undertaken focusing on all aspects of biosynthesis of PGA, and specific types of microorganisms employed. In all, 37 most relevant publications have been selected for the review of information
of this topic. Information gathered on all aspects of PGA biosynthesis and its application has been structured in suitable sections of review. The information included in this review confirms the importance of selecting a most suitable bacterial species of Bacillus in fermentation to produce a specific type of PGA. Whereas, certain modifications could be incorporated in the fermentation system using selected microorganism as biocatalyst, to improve the overall productivity and the quality of PGA for its appropriate applications in food or pharmaceutical industry.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMicrobial and Natural Macromolecules
Subtitle of host publicationSynthesis and Applications
EditorsSurajit Das, Hirak Ranjan Dash
Place of PublicationUSA
PublisherAcademic Press
Chapter25
Pages681-688
Number of pages8
Volume1
Edition1
ISBN (Electronic)9780128200841
ISBN (Print)9780128200858
DOIs
Publication statusPublished online - 18 Sept 2020

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • Bacillus
  • PGA
  • Polyglutamic acid
  • γ-PGA

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