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Screening for novel laccase-producing microbes
L-L Kiiskinen1, M Rättö, K Kruus
1VTT Biotechnology, Espoo, Finland.
Journal of Applied Microbiology
|July 30, 2004
Summary
A simple plate test effectively identified novel fungal laccases for industrial uses. This method, using dyes and phenolic compounds, is efficient for discovering new enzymes for applications like dye decolorization.
Area of Science:
- Enzymology
- Industrial Biotechnology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Laccases are versatile enzymes with significant industrial potential.
- Discovering novel, efficient laccases is crucial for expanding their applications.
- Existing screening methods can be improved for broader enzyme discovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify novel laccase-producing fungal strains.
- To evaluate a cost-effective screening method for laccase discovery.
- To characterize the biochemical properties of newly discovered laccases.
Main Methods:
- Fungal strains were screened on solid media with indicator compounds: Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR), Poly R-478, guaiacol, and tannic acid.
- Positive strains were further cultivated in liquid media for enzyme production.
- Biochemical characterization included molecular weight, pH optima, pI, and thermal stability.
Main Results:
- The screening identified 26 positive fungal strains, with four exhibiting high laccase production.
- Biochemical analyses revealed properties typical of fungal laccases.
- The novel laccases demonstrated good thermal stability, with optimal activity at 60°C.
Conclusions:
- Plate-test screening using polymeric dyes (RBBR, Poly R-478) and phenolic compounds (guaiacol, tannic acid) is an efficient method for discovering laccase producers.
- This approach facilitates the identification of novel enzymes for industrial applications such as textile dye decolorization and effluent detoxification.