Production of Xylanase from Arthrobacter sp. MTCC 6915 Using Saw Dust As Substrate under Solid State Fermentation.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Enzymology
• Microbial Production

Background:

• Xylanases are crucial enzymes for degrading xylan, a major component of plant biomass.
• Industrial applications require efficient and cost-effective xylanase production methods.
• Optimization of microbial fermentation is key to maximizing enzyme yield.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize conditions for xylanase production from Arthrobacter sp. MTCC 6915 using sawdust as a substrate.
• To identify optimal incubation period, temperature, pH, carbon, and nitrogen sources for enhanced enzyme yield.
• To characterize the produced xylanase and compare its activity under different conditions.

Main Methods:

• Sawdust was utilized as a substrate for xylanase production by Arthrobacter sp. MTCC 6915.
• Fermentation parameters including incubation time, temperature, and pH were systematically optimized.
• The effects of various carbon sources (carboxymethylcellulose, dextrose) and nitrogen sources (peptone, beef extract) were evaluated.
• Enzyme characterization involved assessing activity at different pH and temperatures.

Main Results:

• Optimal xylanase production occurred at 96 hours of incubation, 30°C, and pH 9.0.
• Carboxymethylcellulose and dextrose significantly boosted xylanase production.
• Peptone and beef extract were identified as superior nitrogen sources for maximizing enzyme yield.
• The characterized xylanase exhibited high activity at 60°C and pH 9, with production occurring at 30°C and pH 9.

Conclusions:

• Sawdust is a viable substrate for microbial xylanase production.
• Optimized fermentation conditions and nutrient supplementation significantly enhance xylanase yield.
• The produced xylanase demonstrates potential for industrial applications due to its stability and activity profile.