Optimization of n variable biological experiments by evolutionary operation-factorial design technique

Since the traditional approach to optimization of biological systems based on the single variable search technique is incapable of detecting the true optimum when a number of chemicals are used together as inducers, the Evolu tionary Operation (EVOP)-factorial design technique was applied successfull y to optimize the concentrations of vitamin (biotin), metal ion (CaCl2) and plant hormone (NAA) for maximizing enzyme (protease) production by Rhizopu s oryzae (RO IIT RB-13, NRRL-21498) in solid state fermentation,Addition of inducers to an optimal level (biotin-2.5 ppm, CaCl2-20 ppm and NAA-12.5 pp m) resulted in a similar to 1.9-fold increase in protease production.