Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials
Open Access

Abstract

Phytic acid (myo-inositol 1,6 hexakisphosphate) is the major storage form of phosphorus in plants. It cannot be metabolized in monogastric animals since phytic acid acts as an anti-nutritional agent by chelating several metal ions and insoluble form of protein complex. This consequence resulted in mineral deficiencies and phosphorus pollution. One of the finest ways to utilize the phosphorus from phytate is the use of phytase enzyme. In this study, Rhizopus oligosporus MTCC 556 was used to produce phytase by solid state fermentation (SSF) using six different agricultural residues as substrates. A maximal enzyme production of 15.8 U/gds was observed with wheat bran as substrate. Three-step purification was employed with ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion exchange and gel filtration chromatography which resulted in 14.6-fold purified phytase. The molecular weight was estimated to be 88Kda by sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The optimum pH and temperature for phytase activity was found to be 5.5 and 55°C respectively. The effect of different metal ions was examined which showed that Mg 2+ and Zn 2+ ions enhanced the phytase production significantly. This study would be useful for reducing the phosphorus pollution and increasing interest towards efficient utilization of agro industrial wastes for enzyme production.

Biography

Suresh S is pursuing his PhD in the department of chemical engineering, Anna University, Chennai. He has completed M.Sc (Biochemistry) during 2007-09 at SRM Arts and Science College, Chennai and also having a teaching experience for one year at Dr. MGR.Chockalingam Arts College, Arni, Thiruvanamalai District, Tamilnadu.