PH AND THERMAL-STABILITY STUDIES OF CHITINASE FROM TRICHODERMA-HARZIANUM - A THERMODYNAMIC CONSIDERATION

The combined effect of pH and temperature on chitinase was investigate d using response surface methodology. A central composite design for t wo variables was employed. The optimal pH and temperature for the leas t degree of deactivation were found out to be 5.4 and 24 degrees C res pectively. The deactivation rate constants and the half life of chitin ase were estimated at different pH and temperature combinations. At th e optimal pH of 5.4, the rate of the deactivation was found to be the least. Thermodynamic parameters, viz., Delta H, Delta S*, Delta G* an d activation energy of thermal deactivation of chitinase were calculat ed in the temperature range from 50 degrees C to 60 degrees C.