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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Qualitative and Quantitative Assays for Detection and Characterization of Protein Antimicrobials
Published on: April 10, 2016
[Effect of an electromagnetic field on subtilisin from Bacillus subtilis 316 m]
Abstract:
The influence of electromagnetic field on the subtilisin of Bacillus subtilis strain 316 M preparation has been studied. It is the increase 30-60% of the proteolytic activity during 60-100 min treatment was observed. The effect of activation is stable for a month at +4 degrees C. The increase of the proteolytic activity is connected with conformational changes of the enzyme molecule, with the decrease of pI from 11.4 to 9.2 in particular.
Insights
Electromagnetic fields enhance subtilisin enzyme activity from Bacillus subtilis by up to 60%. This activation is stable for a month and linked to molecular conformational changes.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Enzyme Kinetics
Background:
- Subtilisin is a key protease produced by Bacillus subtilis.
- Enzyme activity modulation is crucial for biotechnological applications.
- Understanding enzyme responses to physical stimuli like electromagnetic fields is an emerging area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on the proteolytic activity of subtilisin from Bacillus subtilis strain 316 M.
- To determine the stability and underlying mechanisms of EMF-induced enzyme activation.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of Bacillus subtilis strain 316 M subtilisin preparation to electromagnetic fields for 60-100 minutes.
- Measurement of proteolytic activity before and after EMF treatment.
- Assessment of enzyme stability at +4 degrees C for one month.
- Analysis of isoelectric point (pI) changes to infer conformational modifications.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in proteolytic activity (30-60%) was observed after EMF treatment.
- The enhanced activity remained stable for at least one month when stored at +4 degrees C.
- EMF exposure led to a decrease in the enzyme's isoelectric point (pI) from 11.4 to 9.2.
- This pI shift suggests conformational changes in the subtilisin enzyme molecule.
Conclusions:
- Electromagnetic fields can effectively activate subtilisin from Bacillus subtilis.
- The activation is a stable phenomenon with potential for practical applications.
- Conformational alterations, indicated by pI reduction, are the likely mechanism behind EMF-induced enzyme enhancement.

