UMYU Journal of Microbiology Research (Jun 2024)

Optimization of Fermentation Conditions for Cellulase Production by Trichoderma harzianum PK5 Obtained from Decaying Palm Kernel Cake

  • Antia, U. E.,
  • Adeleke, A. J.,
  • Stephen, N. U.,
  • Owowo, E. E.,
  • Uyanga, F. Z.,
  • Okon, J. E.,
  • Okon, O. G.,
  • Udoh, I. E.

DOI
https://doi.org/10.47430/ujmr.2493.007

Abstract

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Study’s Novelty Excerpt • This study presents a novel optimization of cellulase production by Trichoderma harzianum PK5 using the One Factor at a Time (OFAT) approach, highlighting significant advancements in enzyme yield through precise adjustments of fermentation parameters. • By identifying copra meal and KNO₃ as the optimal carbon and nitrogen sources and establishing key environmental conditions, the research achieves a notable enzyme titre of 252.54±7.73 U/gds in solid-state fermentation. • These findings contribute to cost-effective cellulase production methodologies, enhancing the commercial viability and industrial application of microbial cellulases. Full Abstract Cellulases are considered to be among the most important enzymes in the commercial market and in various industries. Their applications are widespread, leading to increased demand and high associated costs. This necessitates the search for more cost-effective cellulases from microorganisms. Therefore, the aim of this study was to optimize cellulase production by Trichoderma harzianum PK5 using the One Factor at a Time (OFAT) approach. The effects of carbon, nitrogen, and various environmental factors were studied in both submerged and solid-state fermentation setups by adjusting one factor at a time based on the optimal conditions established from the previous condition. Copra meal and KNO3 were identified as the best complex carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively, for cellulase production by Trichoderma harzianum PK5. The optimal pH of 4.0, moisture concentration of 125% (v/w), inoculum size of 8%, temperature of 30°C, and an incubation time of 7 days were determined as the optimal conditions for cellulase production by this isolate, resulting in an enzyme titre of 252.54±7.73 U/gds in solid-state fermentation. It was found that cellulase enzyme production by the isolate was constitutive. In conclusion, cellulase production by T. harzianum PK5 was significantly optimized using the OFAT approach

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