Optimization of xylanase production using inexpensive agro-residues by alkalophilic Bacillus subtilis ASH in solid-state fermentation

Alkalophilic Bacillus subtilis ASH produced high levels of xylanase using easily available inexpensive agricultural waste residues such as wheat bran, wheat straw, rice husk, sawdust, gram bran, groundnut and maize bran in solid-state fermentation (SSF). Among these, wheat bran was found to be best substrate. Xylanase production was highest after 72 h of incubation at 37 degrees C and at a substrate to moisture ratio of 1:2 (w/v). The inoculum level of 15% resulted in maximum production of xylanase. The enzyme production was stimulated by the addition of nutrients such as yeast extract, peptone and beef extract. In contrast, addition of glucose and xylose repressed the production of xylanase. The extent of repression by glucose (10%, w/v) was 81% and it was concentration-dependent. Supplementation of the medium with 4% xylose caused 59% repression. Under optimized conditions, xylanase production in SSF (8,964 U of xylanase/g dry wheat bran) was about twofold greater than in submerged fermentation. Thus, B. subtilis produced a very high level of xylanase in SSF using inexpensive agro-residues, a level which is much higher than that reported by any other bacterial isolate. Furthermore, the enzyme was produced at room temperature and with tap water without the addition of any mineral salt in SSF, leading to a marked decrease in the cost of xylanase production, which enhances its industrial potential.