Screening and Optimization of L-Asparaginase- A Tumour Inhibitor from Aspergillus terreus Through Solid State Fermentation

Abstract

Thirty-five filamentous fungal isolates obtained from soil samples from different regions of Gulbarga, It was identified as Aspergillus terreus and screened for their ability to produce L-asparaginase. Using modified Czapek Dox agar containing L-asparagine and phenol red as indicator, all thirty five L-asparaginase producing fungal isolates could be preliminary identified by plate assay method, observing pink colour formation. It was found that Aspergillus terreus KLS2 exhibited highest activity. The Aspergillus terreus KLS2 were used for optimization of fermentation parameters like pH, temperature and inoculum size for L-asparaginase production through solid state fermentation by using carob pod as a substrate. The pH 4.5, temperature 35 0C and 1x107 spores /ml inoculum size were found optimum for maximum 6.05 IU of L-asparaginase production.