Naringinase Enzyme: Production, Properties, and Immobilization

Naringinase is a multi-enzyme complex that consists of α-L-rhamnosidase and β-D-glucosidase, which work synergistically to hydrolyse naringin, a bitter flavonoid glycoside found in Citrus fruits. The production of naringinase is mainly carried out by microbial fermentation using fungi and bacteria. The enzyme yield and activity can be enhanced by optimizing fermentation conditions, such as pH, temperature, and substrate concentration. Characterization of naringinase includes determining its molecular weight, kinetic properties (Km and Vmax), optimal pH, temperature stability, and substrate specificity. These parameters are crucial for its effective application in industrial processes. Immobilization of naringinase on carrier materials, such as alginate, chitosan, or silica gel, improves enzyme stability, reusability, and activity under diverse conditions, making it more viable for large-scale industrial applications. Naringinase has numerous industrial applications. It is widely used in the food and beverage industry to debitter Citrus juices, improving flavour profiles. In the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors, naringinase facilitates biotransformation of flavonoids, such as converting naringin into more bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Further, this enzyme is utilized in wastewater treatment to break down phenolic compounds. The objective of this review article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current advancements in the production, characterization, and immobilization of naringinase, along with its diverse industrial applications. The review aims to highlight the optimization strategies that enhance enzyme yield and activity, as well as emerging trends in enzyme immobilization techniques, which contribute to the enzyme’s stability and reusability for various industrial processes. The advancements in production, characterization, and immobilization techniques continue to expand the industrial utility of naringinase, enhancing its effectiveness across various sectors.