Abstract

Optimization studies for biosynthesis of exo-inulinase using chicory waste by Acinetobacter calcoacitecus

Author(s): Edwin A.Pithawala, N.K.Jain, H.A.Modi

Biosynthesis of exo-inulinase was investigated from Chicory root tubers. 3 bacterial species were isolated on synthetic mediumcontaining inulin as a sole carbon source. On the basis of maximum exo-inulinase activity on inulin, one of them was selected and identified as Acinetobacter calcoacitecus. Incubation of A. calcoacitecus was carried for 48 hours, 0.3 gm%pure Inulin as substrate concentration as well as 1.5 gm%concentration of Chicory powder in the growthmedium. Optimizations at pH 5.0 and at 37°C were the best conditions for exo-inulinase production. The extracellular enzyme activity was found consistent with the submerged culture method used for biosynthesis of exo-inulinase. The overall production reached up to 1.443 U/ml after 48 hours. The resultant inulinase showed high saccharolytic activity on chicory roots. The isolate which was found commercially important was focused for inulinase production, fructose production and bioremediation approaches. The industrial need of such specific enzymes and improvements required to maximize their bioremediation application in future. Various agro-wastes containing inulin could be economically hydrolyzed with Acinetobacter calcoacitecusinulinase into fructose, which has industrial applications besides the beneficial environmental impact by the bioremediation of such agro-wastes.