Triton X-100 improves co-production of β-1,3-D-glucan and pullulan by Aureobasidium pullulans

The effects of several surfactants on the biosynthesis of β-1,3-D-glucan (β-glucan) and pullulan by Aureobasidium pullulans CCTCC M 2012259 were investigated, and Triton X-100 was found to decrease biomass formation but increase β-glucan and pullulan production. The addition of 5 g/L Triton X-100 to the fermentation medium and bioconversion broth significantly increased β-glucan production by 76.6% and 69.9%, respectively, when compared to the control without surfactant addition. To reveal the physiological mechanism underlying the effect of Triton X-100 on polysaccharides production, the cell morphology and viability, membrane permeability, key enzyme activities, and intracellular levels of UDPG, NADH, and ATP were determined. The results indicated that Triton X-100 increased the activities of key enzymes involved in β-glucan and pullulan biosynthesis, improved intracellular UDPG and energy supply, and accelerated the transportation rate of precursors across the cell membrane, all of which contributed to the enhanced production of β-glucan and pullulan. Moreover, a two-stage culture strategy with combined processes of batch fermentation and bioconversion was applied, and co-production of β-glucan and pullulan in the presence of 5 g/L Triton X-100 additions was further improved. The present study not only provides insights into the effect of surfactant on β-glucan and pullulan production but also presents a feasible approach for efficient production of analogue exopolysaccharides. KEY POINTS: • Triton X-100 increased β-glucan and pullulan production under either batch fermentation or bioconversion. • Triton X-100 increased the permeability of cell membrane and accelerated the transportation rate of precursors across cell membrane. • Activities of key enzymes involved in β-glucan and pullulan biosynthesis were increased in the presence of Triton X-100. • Intracellular UDPG levels and energy supply were improved by Triton X-100 addition.