Enhancement of monascus pigment production by the culture of Monascus sp. J101 at low temperature.
In general, high broth viscosity is a key factor to be considered in a submerged fermentation of filamentous fungi. High broth viscosity was also observed in a batch fermentation of Monascus sp. J101 at 30 degrees C. In a batch culture at 30 degrees C, most cell growth was accomplished within 48 h, which induced highly entangled clumps. The resultant high viscosity induced heterogeneity inside the fermentor, poor oxygen transfer, and low pigment yield. However, these problems could be overcome by reducing fungal growth rate through culture at low temperature (25 degrees C). Cell growth was moderate and continued for 120 h, and low viscosity was maintained. The DO levels remained at 50% or higher with good mixing. As a result, the pigment yield at 25 degrees C was 10 times greater than at 30 degrees C.
Ahn
Jungoh
J
Biopilot Plant, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yusong, Taejeon 305-333, Korea.
Jung
Joonki
J
Hyung
Woochan
W
Haam
Seungjoo
S
Shin
Chulsoo
C
D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D003470:Culture Media / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology; D005285:Fermentation; D032741:Monascus / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism*; D010860:Pigments, Biological / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D013696:Temperature; D014783:Viscosity
D003470:Culture Media; D010860:Pigments, Biological