Production Optimization of Alkali-Thermo Tolerant Crude Endoglucanase from Funalia leonina by Response Surface Methodology

A remarkable yield of an alkali-thermo-tolerant endoglucanase (2.93 IU/ml) was obtained from a white rot fungus, Funalia leonina through fermentation process in solid state, optimized by response surface methodology. The three test variables, viz. pH of medium, incubation temperature and incubation time were optimized as they have significant effect on enzyme production. After solving the model equation, the optimum values of medium pH, incubation temperature and incubation period were found to be 5.8, 34°C and 10 days respectively, for maximum endoglucanase production. The consequence of culture preservation medium on enzyme production capacity was also studied and wheat bran agar medium was found the most suitable medium for culture preservation.