[Anaerobic solid-phase fermentation of plant substrates by Bacillus subtilis]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology and Biotechnology
• Biochemical Engineering

Context:

• Utilizing cellulose-rich plant substrates like presscakes and pulp for microbial fermentation.
• Investigating solid-phase growth of Bacillus subtilis 8130 under specific environmental conditions.

Purpose:

• To explore the biochemical transformations and fermentation products of Bacillus subtilis 8130 grown on plant substrates.
• To characterize bacterial metabolism and fermentation extent through fatty acid profiling.

Summary:

• Solid-phase fermentation of plant materials by Bacillus subtilis 8130 under hypoxic conditions resulted in cellulose depolymerization and protein hydrolysis.
• The process yielded propionic, butyric, and hexanoic acids, with fatty acid proportions indicating bacterial metabolism and fermentation degree.
• Fermentation of sea buckthorn cake produced a product with notable sorption qualities.

Impact:

• Demonstrates the potential of Bacillus subtilis for valorizing plant biomass into useful biochemicals.
• Highlights the formation of valuable fatty acids and a sorbent material from agricultural byproducts.
• Provides insights into microbial degradation pathways and fermentation characteristics for industrial applications.