Optimization of culture conditions for phytase producing Coprinopsis cinerea using rice bran extract as substrate

Abstract

Phosphorus is an essential element for vital life processes but is not readily available due to its presence in bound forms. Phytate, the main reservoir for phosphorus in soil and plant materials is not easily digested in monogastric animals due to lack the enzyme phytase which catalyse the hydrolysis of phytase to release phosphorus and other nutrients. This study was aimed at optimization of culture conditions for phytase producing Coprinopsis cinerea AmutBmutpab 1-1 isolated from poultry dumpsite in Minna, Niger State. Phytase producing microorganisms were isolated from soil sample collected from a poultry dumpsite in Randan Ruwa, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. The best phytase producing strains was identified through molecular characterization. Fermentation conditions (incubation time, temperature, carbon source and pH) were optimized for enhanced phytase production. The results showed that Coprinopsis cinerea AmutBmutpab 1-1 the best phytase producer with a phytase activity of 642 U/mL at optimum conditions of 3 days of incubation, 3% glucose concentration, pH of 6.5 and temperature of 32.5°C. The result of this study showed that rice bran is a good alternative for microbial phytase production.