Optimized xylanase production by Aspergillus tamarii URM3266 in submerged fermentation using wheat bran as a...

The study investigated the bioconversion of wheat bran into xylanases by Aspergillus tamarii URM3266 under submerged fermentation. Initial screening of seven Aspergillus strains identified A. tamarii URM3266 as the most efficient xylanase producer (52.9 U/mL). Wheat bran was the best substrate for enzyme production (54.7 U/mL). A 2³ factorial design revealed that wheat bran concentration was the most significant factor, with high levels (4%) inhibiting enzymatic activity, while lower concentrations (1%) combined with urea (0.6 g/L) maximized production. Fermentation kinetics indicated peak enzyme activity (66.20 U/mL) at 72 h. Xylanase exhibited optimal activity at pH 5.0 and 50 °C, with high stability over a pH range of 4.0-6.0 and up to 50 °C. The kinetic parameters (K_m = 5.5 mg/mL; V_max = 96.15 U/mL) indicated good substrate affinity. The results highlight the potential of A. tamarii URM3266 and wheat bran for the sustainable production of xylanases with biotechnological applications.