Abstract

Praveen Kumar Dasari*

ABSTRACT

The present study deals with the process optimization and production of protease enzyme using Artocarpus heterophyllus as a substrate by Aspergillus awamori in a solid state fermentation process. Solid-state fermentation is defined as a process that occurs on a non-soluble material that acts both as support and a source of nutrients, with a reduced among of water, under the action of fermenting agent. In the process, the microorganism is cultivated on a solid substrate enriched with a high concentration of nutrients, micronutrients and materials and having large surface area. Process variables such as time, temperature, size of inoculum, pH and moisture content were optimized to get the maximum production of pectinase. The increased level of pectinase production was recorded at time 72hrs, temperature 30°C in solid-state conditions. The optimum inoculum level was 40%v/w, pH 5.0 and 70% v/w moisture content of the substrate were optimum for the maximum production of pectinase in solid-state condition. Increased yield of pectinase were observed when medium was supplemented with carbon (3% glucose) and nitrogen (ammonium sulphate, 0.4%) sources. A significant improvement in the enzyme yield was recorded when the basal medium was supplemented with different carbon and nitrogen sources.