Characterization of thermostable and alkalophilic lipase enzyme from endophytic fungus Leptosphaerulina sp

Abstract

Microbal lipases (3.1.1.3) have been able to catalyse a wide variety of reactions in both aqueous ad non aqueous media and have thus become important biocatalysts. They are widely used in medical and industrial applications such as industrial reagents, cleaners, cosmetics and food additives. In present study the Characterization of thermostable and alkalophilic lipase enzyme from endophytic fungus Leptosphaerulina sp. was done. The fungus was shown to produce maximum lipase after 5 days of incubation and olive oil was the preferred Carbon source over glucose. As the levels of lipases produced by Leptosphaerulina sp. were dependent on carbon source soyabean oil was found to be the best inducer. The enzyme was found to be thermostable i.e. 100% stability was shown at 100°C and it was found to tolerate highly alkaline environment (optimum pH 11). Among different organic nitrogen sources Soyabean meal was found to be the preferred nitrogen source. In the presence of manganese ions the activity of lipase was found to be enhanced.