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A High Throughput Screen for Biomining Cellulase Activity from Metagenomic Libraries
Published on: February 1, 2011
Novel mutation method for increased cellulase production.
P Chand1, A Aruna, A M Maqsood
1Department of Microbiology, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India.
Journal of Applied Microbiology
|January 22, 2005
Summary
Researchers isolated cellulase-producing fungi and enhanced enzyme production through novel mutation techniques. A new method using sublethal mutagen concentrations yielded potent, stable fungal mutants for increased enzyme output.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Enzyme Engineering
Background:
- Cellulase enzymes are crucial for biomass degradation.
- Efficient cellulase production is vital for industrial applications.
- Strain improvement through mutation is a key strategy for enhancing enzyme yields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate fungi capable of producing cellulase from soil samples.
- To improve cellulase production in selected fungal strains using novel mutation methods.
- To identify stable and potent cellulase-producing fungal mutants.
Main Methods:
- Fungi were isolated using enriched Mandels cellulose agar.
- Two potent strains were subjected to two mutation methods: direct mutagen treatment and incorporation of mutagens into selective media.
- Mutagenesis involved 1-methyl-3-nitro-1-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG), ethidium bromide (EtBr), and UV radiation.
Main Results:
- Seven fungal strains were initially selected, with two identified as potent cellulase producers.
- Mutation method 2, incorporating mutagens (EtBr, MNNG) in sublethal concentrations into selective media, yielded superior results.
- This method produced stable, highly potent cellulase-producing mutants, outperforming the first mutation method.
Conclusions:
- Employing sublethal mutagen concentrations for extended growth periods effectively generates superior cellulase-producing fungal mutants.
- This novel mutation approach offers a promising strategy for developing potent fungal strains for enhanced enzyme production.
