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Factors affecting foaming behavior in cellulase fermentation by Trichoderma reesei Rut C-30
Qin Zhang1, Chi-Ming Lo, Lu-Kwang Ju
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325-3906, USA.
Bioresource Technology
|June 9, 2006
Summary
In situ foam fractionation coupled with fermentation shows promise for cellulase production. Foaming minimally impacted cellulase activity, with foamate generation decreasing at higher solid concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Enzyme Production
- Fermentation Technology
Background:
- Cellulase production is crucial for biomass conversion.
- In situ foam fractionation offers potential benefits for fermentation processes.
- Understanding foam behavior in Trichoderma reesei fermentation is key to optimizing cellulase recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors influencing foam behavior during Trichoderma reesei Rut C-30 fermentation.
- To assess the impact of foam fractionation on cellulase activity and recovery.
- To identify the primary components responsible for foam generation.
Main Methods:
- Examined the effects of solid (cell and cellulose) concentrations, cellulase activity, and extracellular protein on foaming.
- Measured cellulase activity loss during the foaming process.
- Determined foamate generation and enrichment ratios for cellulase components.
- Investigated cell surface hydrophobicity throughout fermentation.
Main Results:
- Foaming caused minimal loss of cellulase activity.
- Higher solid concentrations reduced foamate generation.
- Cellulase exhibited low enrichment ratios (<1.2), indicating it's not the primary foaming agent.
- Foam carried over cells and cellulose solids.
- Cell surface hydrophobicity increased during the approach to stationary phase.
Conclusions:
- In situ foam fractionation is a viable technique for cellulase production with minimal enzyme loss.
- Solid content is a critical factor in controlling foam generation.
- Cellulase components are not the main drivers of foam formation in this system.
- Foam fractionation can aid in the recovery of both enzymes and solids from fermentation broth.
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