Enzyme Name: Alpha-Amylase (from Bacillus subtilis)
CAS Number: 9000-91-3
Common Source: Bacillus subtilis
Common Uses: Alpha-Amylase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into smaller sugar molecules, such as maltose and glucose. The specific alpha-amylase derived from Bacillus subtilis has various applications in different industries:
Food and Beverage Industry: Alpha-amylase is used in the production of various food products, such as bread, pastries, beer, and spirits. It helps break down starch into fermentable sugars during the brewing and baking processes.
Detergent Industry: Alpha-amylase is utilized in laundry detergents to help break down starch-based stains on clothing.
Biofuel Production: In the biofuel industry, alpha-amylase is used to convert starch from crops into fermentable sugars for bioethanol production.
Textile Industry: Alpha-amylase is used in the textile industry for desizing, a process that removes starch from fabric before dyeing.
 
Other Information: Alpha-Amylase is part of a class of enzymes known as amylases, which are involved in the digestion and metabolism of carbohydrates. The enzyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of the α-1,4-glycosidic linkages in starch, resulting in the production of smaller sugar molecules.
 
Alpha-amylase derived from Bacillus subtilis is popular due to its stability and effectiveness under various conditions. It is used in both industrial and research settings for its ability to efficiently break down starch molecules.