Papain as a Multifunctional Biocatalyst:Advances in Pharmaceutical, Therapeutic and Biomedical Applications – A Review

Abstract

Papain is a cysteine protease obtained from the latex of the Carica papaya L. and has been identified to have proteolytic activity and extensive industrial uses. More recent developments have underscored the importance of it as a multifunctional biocatalyst with a high potential in pharmaceutical, therapeutic and biomedical applications. Advances in extraction and purification methods have significantly enhanced the extraction, purity and processing efficiency of enzymes. Moreover, its functional stability and reusability, as well as resistance to unfavorable conditions, have been improved by stabilization strategies, including enzyme immobilization, cross-linking, and nano-encapsulations. These technologies have broadened the application range of papain, which includes antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties, wound healing, drug delivery systems, nanomedicine and cosmeceutical formulations. Overall, papain represents a versatile and eco-friendly enzyme with a wide role in industries, pharmaceutical and therapeutic fields.