Candida rugosa lipases: molecular biology and versatility in biotechnology.

This review describes how the versatile Candida rugosa lipases (CRL) have extended the frontiers of biotechnology. As evidenced by the current literature, CRL claims more applications than any other biocatalyst. This review comprises a detailed discussion on the molecular biology of CRL, its versatile catalytic reactions, broad specificities and diverse immobilization strategies. It also discusses its role in the food and flavour industry, the production of ice cream and single cell protein, biocatalytic resolution of life-saving pharmaceuticals, carbohydrate esters and amino acid derivatives unobtainable by conventional chemical synthesis, potent biocide making, biosensor modulations, eco-friendly approach and bioremediation, biosurfactants in detergent making, and recently, cosmetics and perfumery.