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Published on: April 9, 2016
[Flocculating activity of Penicillium purpurogenum EL-02 and its flocculating activity]
Yushan Zhang1, Jing Wang, Jianan Hao
1Institute of Seawater Desalination and Multipurpose Utilization, SOA, Tianjin 300192, China. yushanzhang@hotmail.com
Objective:
To isolate, identify and characterize a fungus with flocculating activity.
Methods:
We used gradient dilution, plaque distribution and 18S rDNA analysis to isolate and identify a fungus with flocculating activity. We used high-speed centrifugation, ultrasonication and qualitative test to determine the nature of flocculating active substances.
Results:
We isolated a flocculating active fungi and identified it as Penicillium purpurogenum. Ultrasonication test confirmed that the flocculating activity was primarily in the fermentation supernatant. We explored the flocculating activity curve and found that 4 days was the optimum fermentation time for accumulating flocculating active substances. The strain flocculating activity remains unchanged when pH varied from 2 to 11 and temperature varied from -70 degrees C to 100 degrees C. We finally identified the flocculating active substances as saccharides.
Conclusion:
We isolated a flocculating active strain P. purpurogenum EL-02, and identified its flocculating active products as saccharides.
Insights
A novel fungus, Penicillium purpurogenum EL-02, was isolated for its potent flocculating activity. Its active products were identified as saccharides, stable across a wide pH and temperature range.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology: Isolation and identification of microbial strains.
- Biochemistry: Characterization of microbial metabolites and their properties.
Context:
- Flocculating agents are crucial in various industrial processes, including wastewater treatment and fermentation.
- Identifying novel microbial sources of effective flocculants is an ongoing area of research.
Purpose:
- To isolate and identify a fungus exhibiting significant flocculating activity.
- To characterize the nature and stability of the flocculating substances produced by the fungus.
Summary:
- A flocculating active fungus was isolated and identified as Penicillium purpurogenum EL-02 using gradient dilution, plaque distribution, and 18S rDNA analysis.
- The flocculating activity was localized in the fermentation supernatant and optimal after 4 days of fermentation.
- The active substances were identified as saccharides, demonstrating remarkable stability across a broad pH range (2-11) and temperature range (-70°C to 100°C).
Impact:
- This study identifies a robust microbial flocculant, Penicillium purpurogenum EL-02, with potential applications in industrial settings.
- The identified saccharide-based flocculant offers a stable and versatile option for processes requiring solid-liquid separation.
