Alkaline proteases from Patagonian bacteria

Abstract

Besides the ecological importance of extracellular proteases in the acquisition of nitrogen-rich organic compounds, these enzymes have also interesting biotechnological applications. Particularly, alkaline proteases represent one of the most important groups of commercial enzymes. Firstly, we introduce the classification and catalytic mechanisms of proteases. Then, this Chapter reviews the advances in the bioprospection of alkaline proteases produced by bacteria adapted to selective conditions from different environments of Patagonia (Argentina). Among them, the arid soils of the Patagonian Monte which are propitious for the development of alkaliphilic microorganisms and the southern Patagonian coast with psychrophilic and psychrotolerant protease-producing strains.