Optimization of lovastatin production from Aspergillus fumigatus

The present investigation, focused on screening of various fungal species for Lovastatin production using different agro-based wastes, also, for maximizing lovastatin productivity by isolated Aspergillus fumigatus using response surface methodology (RSM). The following substrates (Olive cake; Pea pods; sugarcane bagasse; wheat bran; rice hulls; beet peel; Potato peel and groundnut shells) were screened to evaluate their effectiveness for lovastatin production, using different fungal species, (Aspergillus niger; Rhizopus oligosporus; Penicillium citrinum and isolated Aspergillus fumigatus) under solid state fermentation (SSF). Wheat bran was the most suitable substrate for lovastatin production with all fungal species. Optimum conditions of lovastatin production by wheat bran have been attained efficiently by response surface methodology (RSM) using isolated Aspergillus fumigatus under solid state fermentation (SSF). The lovastatin yield of (3.353 mg/g DFM) was obtained at an optimum temperature of 28 °C; pH of 5.00; initial moisture content of 70% and incubation period of 12 days. This Lovastatin has the possibility to use in different therapeutic applications.