What is the role of phytase?

Phytase is a natural chemical found in animals, plants, and microbes like bacteria. It helps to break down another chemical called phytic acid. Phytic acid can bind to important minerals like iron and zinc. Breaking down phytic acid helps to release iron and zinc so that the body can absorb them better.

What are the sources of phytase?

Phytase enzymes have been isolated and characterized from a number of plant sources—wheat, rice, rape seed, soybean, maize, and rye (Table 3.1). Most of these plant phytases initiate the hydrolysis of phyate at position C6 of the myo-inositol hexaphosphate ring, therefore considered as type 6 phytases.

What is a phytase?

A phytase ( myo -inositol hexakisphosphate phosphohydrolase) is any type of phosphatase enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of phytic acid (myo-inositol hexakisphosphate) – an indigestible, organic form of phosphorus that is found in many plant tissues, especially in grains and oil seeds – and releases a usable form of inorganic phosphorus.

What is the history of plant phytase production?

The first plant phytase was found in 1907 from rice bran and in 1908 from an animal (calf’s liver and blood). In 1962 began the first attempt at commercializing phytases for animal feed nutrition enhancing purposes when International Minerals & Chemicals (IMC) studied over 2000 microorganisms to find the most suitable ones for phytase production.

What is the market value of phytase for feed application?

Phytase for feed application is produced by fermentation of microbial strains and is mostly used in swine and poultry feeds. Phytase accounts for over 40% of the total feed enzyme market, and is valued at US $300–350 million. There are significant differences in the market price for phytase and the product is sold under different concentrations.

What is the role of phytases in phytic acid regulation?

The exact roles of phytases in the regulation of phytic acid and its metabolites and the resulting role in the physiological processes described above are still largely unknown and the subject of much research. Phytase has been reported to cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis in a human exposed while adding the enzyme to cattle feed.