Cellulase
Also known as: fungal cellulase, Trichoderma cellulase, Aspergillus niger cellulase, endoglucanase
Cellulase breaks the beta-1,4 bonds of cellulose, the structural fiber in plant cell walls that human digestive enzymes cannot touch. Supplement-grade cellulase is fermented from Trichoderma reesei or Aspergillus niger and is included in digestive enzyme blends on the rationale that partially opening plant cell walls may release nutrients from raw vegetables and fruit. Human trials isolating cellulase are lacking; its role in blends rests on in vitro activity and formulator convention rather than clinical data. Products quote activity in CU (cellulase units), and doses are small relative to amylase or protease.
Research summary
Hydrolyzes beta-1,4 glucosidic bonds in cellulose; proposed to loosen plant cell walls during digestion. Human evidence is not established.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | — | — | — |
Market inclusion is roughly 200–1,000 CU per serving within a digestive enzyme blend, taken with meals. Milligram doses are left null because supplier potency (CU per gram) varies and no clinical dose has been established. Position it as a supporting component, not a primary active.
Standardization: Activity-standardized: 200–1,000 CU per serving (CU = cellulase units, FCC); supplier states CU per gram
Source material: Trichoderma reesei or Aspergillus niger fermentation
As supplied: Manufacturers quote activity (CU per gram), not mass.
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Heat- and moisture-sensitive; capsule, dry powder, or low-heat tablet only.
Formulation notes
Can degrade cellulose-based excipients (microcrystalline cellulose, HPMC capsule shells) if moisture is present over long storage; keep water activity low.
Sources
Related ingredients
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Typical: 10–50 B CFU
Magnesium Oxide
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Typical: 200–350 mg
Inulin (Chicory Root Fiber)
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Typical: 5–10 g
Piperine (Black Pepper Extract 95%)
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Typical: 5–20 mg
Greens Blend (Generic)
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Typical: 3–10 g