E3 Journal of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Research

E3 Journal of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Research Vol. 1 (1) pp. 001-008, October 2010; © E3 Journals; ISSN 2141-7474

Optimization of a-amylase production from free and immobilized cells of Aspergillus niger

Abstract

In the present study, characterization of amylase producing Aspergillus niger isolate, optimization of medium composition, cultural conditions for amylase enzyme production, extraction and partial purification of extra cellular enzyme from a potential isolate was investigated using both free and immobilized cells. The alpha amylase of A. niger had the pH optima ranged at 4-6 and temperature optima ranged at 30-40°C, however the optimum pH, temperature and incubation period for enzyme production was 5.0, 35°C and 5th day for Immobilized cells and 5.0, 30°C and 5th day for free cells respectively. Of the carbon sources, starch was recorded to be the best carbon source for enzyme production. Peptone at 0.03% was ideal nitrogen source. However, surfactants Tween -80, Triton X-100 and Sodium dodecyl sulphate at 0.02%. 0.002% and 0.0002 % concentration were most effective for enhancement of α-amylase production. Finally the enzyme was characterized by chromatography and confirmed as alpha amylase.

Keywords: Aspergillus niger, α-amylase, Free cells, Immobilized cells.