Physiological optimization of secreted protein production by Aspergillus niger

Physiological factors affecting hen eggwhite lysozyme and native glucoamylase production by Aspergillus niger have been examined in batch culture. Expression of the genes encoding both proteins was controlled by the glucoamylase promoter. In standard expression medium (ACMS/N/P), secreted lysozyme yields were found to be maximal at 20-25 degrees C (8-10 mg l-1) and markedly reduced at 30-37 degrees C (3-5 mg l-1). Production of lysozyme exhibited similar induction or repression profiles to that of endogenous glucoamylase such that secreted lysozyme yields could be ordered with respect to growth on the following carbon sources: soluble starch > maltose > glucose >> xylose. Significantly higher yields of up to 30-60 mg l-1 were obtained in a richer medium containing soya milk, although in contrast to growth in ACMS/N/P, the highest levels of secreted lysozyme were achieved at 37 degrees C. This improvement is attributed partly to an increase in culture biomass concentration and to a reduction in medium acidification. Growth in this medium produced a markedly different pellet morphology.