Industrial prospects for thermophiles and thermophilic enzymes

Abstract

Reasons for enzyme instability are discussed. Thermophiles are a promising source of more stable intracellular enzymes. This aids their purification as well as providing desirable industrial properties. The organisms themselves have advantages for high temperature fermentations, e.g. for ethanol production. Systems for cloning genes into them are under development. An example is given of genetic and physiological manipulation of a fast-fermenting Bacillus stearothermophilus to increase ethanol yields at 70 degrees C similar to those obtained with yeasts.