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Dynamic of antibiotic accumulation by Streptomyces aureofaciens in a laboratory fermentor
Abstract:
In a laboratory fermentor, the growth of Streptomyces aureofaciens on corn meal extract and its production of antibiotic was investigated. Weak biosynthesis of the antibiotic started after 12 hours of incubation, when phosphorus depletion in the medium occurred. During the third and fourth day of fermentation about 80.4% of the antibiotic was produced. The relationship between growth, antibiotic formation, and the uptake of both sugar and nitrogen was also studied. A chromatogram, showing the types of sugar present during fermentation period is given. Improvement of antibiotic accumulation either by adding sugar at the end of the logarithmic phase of growth or by determining the rate of aeration is also discussed.
Insights
Streptomyces aureofaciens antibiotic production begins after phosphorus depletion and peaks on days 3-4. Optimizing sugar addition and aeration can improve antibiotic yield.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Fermentation Technology
Background:
- Streptomyces aureofaciens is a key antibiotic-producing microorganism.
- Understanding fermentation parameters is crucial for optimizing antibiotic yield.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate Streptomyces aureofaciens growth and antibiotic production in a laboratory fermentor.
- Analyze the relationship between growth, antibiotic formation, and nutrient uptake.
- Explore methods to improve antibiotic accumulation.
Main Methods:
- Cultivation of Streptomyces aureofaciens in a laboratory fermentor using corn meal extract.
- Monitoring of antibiotic biosynthesis, microbial growth, and nutrient (sugar, nitrogen, phosphorus) uptake.
- Analysis of sugar composition during fermentation using chromatography.
Main Results:
- Antibiotic biosynthesis initiated after 12 hours, coinciding with phosphorus depletion.
- Approximately 80.4% of the total antibiotic was produced between the third and fourth day of fermentation.
- A correlation was observed between growth, antibiotic formation, and the consumption of sugar and nitrogen.
Conclusions:
- Phosphorus depletion is a key trigger for antibiotic biosynthesis in Streptomyces aureofaciens.
- Fermentation time and nutrient availability significantly impact antibiotic production.
- Strategies like timed sugar addition and controlled aeration can enhance antibiotic accumulation.