author(s)
Nirja Thakur, Amarjit K Nath, Anjali Chauhan, Subhash Chand Parmar, Himanshu Pandey and Kanika Thakur

abstract
Chitinases are extensively dispersed enzymes involved in the bioconversion process of wastes from crustacean chitin, chitin mineralization and in plant defense. Chitinases as biocontrol agents are of considerable importance. Plants, animals and microorganisms are the main sources of chitinase enzyme. Though, enzymes from microbial origin have tremendous applications in industrial sectors. Chitin and its derived compounds are of great concern not only as an under-utilized bio-resource but also as a new functional material of high potential in various fields. Utilization of chitinases for diverse aspects depends upon the supply of cost effective preparations. The biochemistry and genetics of these enzymes, their phylogenetic relationships and methods of estimation will make them more practical in a wide range of processes in the near future. This review focuses on production of chitinases, their classification, degradation, biocontrol attributes and their use in industrial applications.