Optimized production of cell-wall-degrading enzymes by Penicillium brevicompactum and its effects on sugarcane...

Lignocellulosic waste is a major byproduct of agricultural processing, yet its efficient valorization remains limited by high enzyme production costs, strain performance, and biomass recalcitrance. This study presents, for the first time, the optimized production of a cell-wall-degrading enzyme cocktail by Penicillium brevicompactum grown on sugarcane bagasse (SCB) via solid-state fermentation. To achieve that, we employed a central composite rotational design (CCRD) for enzyme optimization, using time and moisture content as variables. After determining the optimal conditions, the SCB chemical changes were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and gravimetric analysis, while the morphological changes were examined via scanning electron microscopy. The results showed maximum enzyme activity for all tested enzymes, including carboxymethylcellulase (CMCase), total cellulase (FPase), xylanase, pectinase, avicelase, and β-glucosidase, at a moisture content of 65 % after seven days of fermentation. Response surface methodology proved significant for four out of the six response variables: (1786 U/L), total cellulase (1359 U/L), CMCase (1127 U/L), and xylanase (284 U/L). SCB showed significant degradation of cellulose and hemicellulose and a significant reduction in fermentable sugars. Also, morphological changes on SCB were observed. Thus, the results suggest that P. brevicompactum could provide a more feasible and cost-effective method for enzymatic production through solid-state fermentation. These findings contribute to the future advancement of enzyme production and biomass conversion for practical applications.