Effect of pH on lipid accumulation by an oleaginous yeast:Rhodotorula glutinis IIP-30

V Johnson1, M Singh, V S Saini

  • 1the Microbiology Department School of Sciences, Gujarat University, 380 009, Ahemadabad, India.

Insights

Optimal lipid production in Rhodotorula glutinis IIP-30 yeast occurred at pH 4 under nitrogen-limiting conditions. This study investigated yeast lipid content and fatty acid profiles across various pH levels.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Biotechnology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • * Rhodotorula glutinis is a yeast known for its potential in microbial lipid production.
  • * Optimizing fermentation conditions is crucial for maximizing lipid yield for industrial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • * To determine the optimal pH for maximum lipid production in Rhodotorula glutinis IIP-30.
  • * To analyze the effect of pH on lipid content, fatty acid profile, and ergosterol production.

Main Methods:

  • * Fed-batch fermentation of Rhodotorula glutinis IIP-30 using glucose as a carbon source.
  • * Cultivation was performed at 30°C under nitrogen-limiting conditions.
  • * Lipid content, fatty acid composition, and ergosterol were quantified across a pH range (3-6).

Main Results:

  • * Maximum lipid production reached 66% (w/w dry weight) at pH 4.
  • * Lipid content varied significantly with pH: 12% at pH 3, 48% at pH 5, and 44% at pH 6.
  • * Fatty acid profiles showed minimal changes, but ergosterol content decreased by approximately 33% as pH increased from 4 to 6.

Conclusions:

  • * pH 4 is identified as the optimal condition for maximizing lipid accumulation in Rhodotorula glutinis IIP-30 under the tested N-limiting fed-batch fermentation.
  • * While lipid content is highly pH-dependent, the fatty acid profile remains relatively stable, suggesting consistent lipid quality.
  • * Increasing pH negatively impacts ergosterol production, a valuable co-product.