Performance of hydrolytic enzymes produced by Trichoderma in sustainable crop production: Current insights and future perspectives

Abstract

The fungal genus Trichoderma is widely recognized for its diverse agricultural applications, particularly its ability to enhance plant growth, suppress pathogens, facilitate organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. Trichoderma-produced enzymes play a crucial role in these processes, making them valuable biocatalysts for sustainable crop production. However, despite their well-documented benefits, the full potential of these enzymes remains underexplored. A deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing Trichoderma's enzymatic activity in agricultural systems could provide critical insights into optimizing their efficacy. To this end, this review examines the current applications of Trichoderma-derived enzymes in sustainable agriculture, highlights the challenges associated with their industrial-scale use, and explores emerging technologies such as genetic engineering, enzyme engineering and design, and innovative enzyme production strategies. Addressing these challenges and leveraging advanced biotechnological tools will allow Trichoderma-produced enzymes to be further optimized for broader agricultural applications, contributing to sustainable food production and environmental conservation.