Optimization of Alkaline Lipase Production from Burkholderia cepacia through Submerged Fermentation

Abstract

The hydrolysis of long chain triglycerides can be catalysed by a class of enzymes known as lipases. Currently, microbial lipases are receiving much attention because of their actual and potential application in industry. In this paper, the production of lipase from Burkholderia cepacia through submerged fermentation (SmF) has been optimized. Various parameters which include pH (4.4 – 9.0), agitation speed (100 – 300 rpm), incubation time (12 – 72 h) and mode of autoclave (mix or separate) were optimized. It was observed that the fermentation medium should first be mixed before autoclaved instead of mixing the fermentation medium after autoclave as the former has higher lipase production. The optimum operating condition for the fermentation to obtain maximum production of lipase (11.18 U/mL) was at pH 9.0, 300 rpm and incubation time of 72 h.