| abstract |
The subject invention relates to novel compositions of neutral and/or alkaline cellulase and methods for obtaining neutral and/or alkaline cellulase compositions from Chrysosporium cultures, in particular Chrysosporium lucknowense. This invention also provides mutants and methods of generating mutants of Chrysosporium capable of producing neutral and/or alkaline cellulase. This invention also relates to the genes encoding the enzymes comprising the neutral and/or alkaline cellulase composition. In addition, this invention provides methods of culturing Chrysosporium to produce neutral and/or alkaline cellulases. The neutral and/or alkaline cellulase compositions of the subject invention can be used in a variety of processes including stone washing of clothing, detergent processes, deinking, color brightening, depilling and biobleaching of paper and pulp and treatment of waste streams. The present invention also relates to the isolation and purification of cellulase enzymes, having glucanase and cellobiohydrolase activity, and useful for stonewashing applications. |