title: Solid-state fermentation: a continuous process for fungal tannase production.
abstract: Truly continuous solid-state fermentations with operating times of 2-3 weeks were conducted in a prototype bioreactor for the production of fungal (Penicillium glabrum) tannase from a tannin-containing model substrate. Substantial quantities of the enzyme were synthesized throughout the operating periods and (imperfect) steady-state conditions seemed to be achieved soon after start-up of the fermentations. This demonstrated for the first time the possibility of conducting solid-state fermentations in the continuous mode and with a constant noninoculated feed. The operating variables and fermentation conditions in the bioreactor were sufficiently well predicted for the basic reinoculation concept to succeed. However, an incomplete understanding of the microbial mechanisms, the experimental system, and their interaction indicated the need for more research in this novel area of solid-state fermentation.
authors.affiliation: Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering, School of Food Biosciences, The University of Reading, PO Box 226, Whiteknights, RG6 6AP, UK.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: van de Lagemaat
authors.forename: D L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Pyle
mesh_terms: D019149:Bioreactors / Q000382:microbiology*; D002265:Carboxylic Ester Hydrolases / Q000096:biosynthesis* / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D018929:Cell Culture Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D005285:Fermentation; D010407:Penicillium / Q000201:enzymology* / Q000254:growth & development*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013634:Tannins / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D013634:Tannins; D002265:Carboxylic Ester Hydrolases; C022711:tannase