Industrial enzymology: a look towards the future

Recent advances in recombinant-DNA technology, protein engineering and process development have begun to influence the industrial enzyme market in a very positive way. The last episodes of growth in the market occurred in the early 1960s, with the introduction of enzymes such as glucoamylase for starch hydrolysis, and later in the 1970s, when the development of encapsulated products allowed the reintroduction of enzymes into detergents. Although the details of specific advances tend to remain within the industry, it is clear that the prospects for improved products in existing markets and for extending markets for enzymes are great.