Application of Enzymes

Last week, we talked about one of the applications of enzymes in real life, which is using pectinase to extract apple juice. Today we will discuss another use of enzymes in industry, which is utilizing lactase to produce lactose-free milk. This application is commonly taught and referred to, which implies its significance. 

Immobilized Enzyme

Enzymes are widely used across industries, which attach enzymes to a particular material to immobilize them. Restricting the movement of enzymes is vital because immobilized enzymes allow for a faster rate of reaction.  They also permit separation of enzymes, which can later be recycled. Another advantage of restricting enzymatic movement is that they are more stable and less likely to be affected by pH and temperature. Immobilized enzymes are most commonly used in the detergent industry to manufacture washing products, the food industry to extract juice or produce syrup, and the pharmaceutical industry to produce antibodies.

The main focus of today’s post will be the production of lactose-free milk by using the enzyme lactase. This solves the problem of lactose intolerance, which is a widespread issue among Europe, Asia, and Africa. Currently, over 90% of the population is lactose intolerant. For these patients, lactose-free products are necessary to prevent ill effects after consumption. 

Breakdown of Lactose into Glucose and Galactose Through Lactase

Lactose-free products are produced by adding lactase, which is made from the fungus Aspergillus niger, to milk. These enzymes break down lactose into glucose and galactose. It is important to remove lactase after lactose is broken down since the presence of an enzyme can yield other problems. Thus lactase is immobilized in alginate beads so that it is separated from milk. 

Works Cited

“Evo-Ed: Integrative Cases in Evolution Education.” Evo-Ed: Lactase Cell Biology, lbc.msu.edu/evo-ed/pages/Lactase/cellbio.html.

“Benefits.” Materium, http://www.materiuminnovations.com/project/biotech-enzyme-immobilization/.

“Lactose Intolerance 101 – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment.” Healthline, Healthline Media, http://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lactose-intolerance-101.