Acid Phosphatase Produced by Trichoderma harzianum in Solid Fermentation Using Millet

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Enzymology
• Microbial Biotechnology

Background:

• Acid phosphatases (AcPases) are crucial enzymes for organic phosphorus absorption and utilization.
• Fungi play a key role in converting insoluble phosphorus into soluble forms via enzymatic hydrolysis.
• AcPases function optimally at acidic pH (below 6.00).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and optimize the production and extraction of acid phosphatases.
• To investigate the potential of solid-state fermentation (SSF) using millet as a substrate.
• To determine optimal conditions for enzyme activity and biomass production.

Main Methods:

• Solid-state fermentation (SSF) using millet as a substrate.
• Preliminary screening to identify optimal substrate and strain potential.
• Central Composite Design (CCD) to optimize variables: millet mass, inoculum concentration, and moisture.
• Extraction using Tween 80.

Main Results:

• Millet was identified as the most effective substrate for enzyme production.
• Optimized SSF conditions using CCD yielded significant biomass (9.27 ± 0.53 g/L) and acid phosphatase activity (36.09 ± 0.61 U/mL).
• Cultivation in sterile distilled water and extraction with Tween 80 enhanced results.

Conclusions:

• Solid-state fermentation with millet is an effective method for producing acid phosphatases.
• Optimized conditions significantly increased enzyme yield and biomass.
• This process holds potential for efficient organic phosphorus management.