A Review of Microbial Degradation of Keratin and Its Application

The progress of studies on keratin,keratinase and keratin degrading microorganisms were reviewed. A large amount of keratin contained wastes were produced in poultry farm,they could be a new resource of protein if treated properly.Some keratin degrading microorganisms and keratinase were isolated and studied.The application of keratinase to the treatment of keratin contained wastes should be a cost effective biotechnology for environmental protection.