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Cellulase-free xylanases from Bacillus and other microorganisms
1Biochemical Processing and Waste Water Technology, Regional Research Laboratory (CSIR), Trivandrum, India.
FEMS Microbiology Letters
|January 29, 2000
Summary
Researchers discovered a novel xylanase from Bacillus SSP-34, ideal for pulp and paper industries. This enzyme offers high xylanase activity with minimal cellulase contamination, supporting eco-friendly pulp bleaching.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Industrial Microbiology
- Enzymology
Background:
- Xylanases are crucial for Kraft pulp pretreatment, reducing chlorine use in paper bleaching.
- Existing xylanases often possess undesirable cellulolytic activity, limiting their industrial application.
- There is a need for thermostable, alkaline-stable xylanases with low cellulase activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize novel xylanase-producing microbial cultures.
- To identify a potent xylanase suitable for industrial pulp and paper applications.
- To evaluate the enzymatic properties and cellulase contamination of the novel xylanase.
Main Methods:
- Screening of xylanase-producing microbial strains.
- Isolation and characterization of an alkalophilic Bacillus SSP-34.
- Quantification of xylanase and cellulase (CMCase, FPase) activities under varying pH and temperature conditions.
Main Results:
- Bacillus SSP-34 yielded high xylanase activity (>100 IU/ml).
- SSP-34 xylanases exhibit optimal activity at 50°C and pH 6-8.
- Minimal cellulolytic activity was detected (CMCase: 0.4 IU/ml, FPase: 0.2 IU/ml at pH 7), with no activity at pH 9.
Conclusions:
- Bacillus SSP-34 is a promising source of industrial xylanases.
- The characterized xylanase is suitable for pulp and paper applications due to its high activity and low cellulase content.
- This enzyme offers an environmentally friendly alternative for pulp bleaching processes.