Application of enzymes for targeted removal of biofilm and fouling from fouling-release surfaces in marine environments: A review

Abstract

Biofouling causes adverse issues in underwater structures including ship hulls, aquaculture cages, fishnets, petroleum pipelines, sensors, and other equipment. Marine constructions and vessels frequently are using coatings with antifouling properties. During the previous ten years, several alternative strategies have been used to combat the biofilm and biofouling that have developed on different abiotic or biotic surfaces. Enzymes have frequently been suggested as a cost-effective, substitute, eco-friendly, for conventional antifouling and antibiofilm substances. The destruction of sticky biopolymers, biofilm matrix disorder, bacterial signal interference, and the creation of biocide or inhibitors are among the catalytic reactions of enzymes that really can successfully prevent the formation of biofilms. In this review we presented enzymes that have antifouling and antibiofilm properties in the marine environment like α-amylase, protease, lysozymes, glycoside hydrolase, aminopeptidases, oxidase, haloperoxidase and lipases. We also overviewed the function, benefits and challenges of enzymes in removing biofouling. The reports suggest enzymes are good candidates for marine environment. According to the findings of a review of studies in this field, none of the enzymes were able to inhibit the development of biofilm by a site marine microbial community when used alone and we suggest using other enzymes or a mixture of enzymes for antifouling and antibiofilm purposes in the sea environment.

Keywords: Antibiofilm; Antifouling; Enzymes; Marine environment.