Production of a thermostable alkaline protease from alkalophilic Kocuria varians grown on various agricultural wastes

Nwagu, T. N. and Nomeh, N. and Amadi, O. C. (2015) Production of a thermostable alkaline protease from alkalophilic Kocuria varians grown on various agricultural wastes. Acta Alimentaria, 44 (3). pp. 317-325. ISSN 0139-3006

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Abstract

The ability of Kocuria varians to grow and produce protease when utilizing various local wastes was studied. Impact of cultivation pH on growth and enzyme production was also evaluated. Cassava waste combined with bambara nut waste (1:1) gave the best protease yield. Maximum enzyme production was attained when production medium was adjusted to pH 9. Highest protease concentration in the culture fluid was recorded at 20 h during the exponential phase of growth. The enzyme was optimally active and stable at 80 °C. Optimum pH for protease activity was at 11 with optimal stability at the alkaline range (pH 7–11) after incubation for 1 h. The enzyme was inhibited by EDTA, Hg²⁺, and Zn²⁺, but not by Pb²⁺, and was slightly stimulated by Cu²⁺. The properties of this protease make it a promising candidate for further studies and possible applications in processes involving extreme conditions of pH and temperature.

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