Applications of lipase

Lipases are endowed with a substrate specificity that surpasses that of any other known enzyme. This confers on these enzymes an application potential that is literally boundless. Lipases can be employed in the production of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, leather, detergents, foods, perfumery, medical diagnostics, and other organic synthetic materials. This review attempts to present a comprehensive discussion on the present status of this unique group of enzymes in industry, as well as the actual potential. It represents an endeavor to provide a sincere answer to the question, ''What can be done with this enzyme?'' as well as, ''Can lipase be utilized for this purpose!'' It is intended that the manuscript will cover or at least mention all known applications, based on the exploitation of a particular type of reaction catalyzed by lipases. An attempt will be made to cover as large a number of references as possible, so as to further underline the importance and significance of lipase action for industry.