Optimization of biomass and endo-β-1,4-glucanase by white rot fungi native from Argentina

Abstract

A large number of microorganisms are capable of producing cellulases; however, fungi are considered among the most activeenzymes producers. Different strains of white rot fungi (WRF) were reported to have a great potential for biotechnologicalapplications and cellulase enzymes is much involved in this effect, especially for bioethanol production. Misiones is included in aforest region characterized by a vast biodiversity, and within this environment, a large number of microorganisms can be isolated,including numerous white rot fungi. In the present work, response surface methodology (RSM) was applied for the determinationof biomass and endo-β-1,4-glucanase activity factors dependence from three Argentinean WRF in submerged cultures. RSM wascarried out with a Box-Behnken design using 3 variables, temperature (25, 29 and 33°C), incubation time (7, 10.5 and 14 days)and pH (3.5, 4.5 and 5.5) with three central points and 2 replications. The best conditions for enzymatic activity were achieved atmaximum level of temperature (33°C), low level of pH (3.5) and intermediate level of incubation time (10.5 h). We havepresented here, preliminary studies on biomass and enzyme production of three fungi. Our data show that we have not yetreached the optimal enzyme production conditions, so further experiments are needed to reach optimal conditions.