Characterization of a Feather Degrading by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Protease: A New Strain

摘要

Feathers are rich in aminoacids and can be employed as a dietary protein supplement for animal feed. Microbial degradation of feathers (keratinase) represents an alternative technology for improving their nutritional value. The strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens isolated of poultry processing plant, showed efficient for application in biotechnological processes. Optimum pH and temperature for the enzyme were 8.0 and 50 degree C, respectively. Enzyme activity was significantly inhibited by EDTA (50mM). Strong activation occurred when the enzyme was incubated with mercaptoethanol (0.1 and 0.5% w/v), resulting in a proteolytic and keratinolytic relative activity of 838 and 197 percent, respectively. The addition of triton at concentrations of 0.1 and 0.5 percent (w/v) also favored enzyme proteolytic activity, resulting in a 97 percent increase when incubated in 0.1% triton (w/v). The enzyme produced by Bacillus amyoliquefaciens exhibited activity in base pH and 50 degree C and was active in presence of different metals.