Abstract: Poly-γ-glutamic acid(γ-PGA)with good water solubility,biodegradability,and adsorption is nontoxic to human body and natural environment,and thus it has been already widespreadly used in such fields as food,cosmetics,medical,and wastewater industries. However,the high production cost of γ-PGA impedes it from being further applied. Therefore,the traits,production and application of γ-PGA were reviewed in this work,where microbial production of γ-PGA was emphasized. The work revealed that selection of fermentation matrix,optimization and regulation of fermentation process,and updating separation and purification technology would help reduce the production cost of γ-PGA and improve the productive efficiency. Finally,based on the present researches and the responding developing tendency,the problems in previous work about γ-PGA were proposed,and meanwhile,the prospect in future research of γ-PGA was made. This work will provide a valued reference for theoretical research and practical application of γ-PGA.