Some studies on optimization of extraction process for protease productionin SSF

A locally isolated filamentous fungus belonging to the group phycomycetes n amely Rhizopus oryzae was identified to secrete alkaline protease. The prod uction of this enzyme through solid state fermentation process has been att empted. From fermented biomass extraction of the enzyme was found to depend on the different parameters like nature of solvent, time of soaking, tempe rature etc. While optimizing the extraction process, it was found that 10% ethanol with 3% glycerol was the best solvent for protease extraction, when the soaking time was 2 hours and temperature 30 degrees C. It was further observed that double wash of fermented biomass yielded almost total enzyme in the leachate.