Production of Glucose isomerase from endophytic Actinobacteria associated with Guiera senegalensis

Abstract

Background: Glucose isomerase (GI) is a key industrial enzyme primarily used in the conversion of glucose to fructose during the production of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Despite the wide spread application of GI, there is a growing need to explore novel and cost-effective microbial sources, particularly from endophytic Actinobacteria, which are known for their metabolic versatility and enzyme-producing capabilities. However, their potential for GI production remains under investigated. This study aimed to isolate endophytic Actinobacteria from Guiera senegalensis and evaluate their potential for Glucose isomerase production under submerged fermentation conditions. Endophytic Actinobacteria were isolated from the roots of G. senegalensis obtained from farmland within Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero (KSUSTA). GI production was carried out via submerged fermentation for seven days, with enzymatic activity assessed at 24-hour intervals. The six (6) isolated Actinobacterial strains appeared with different color (white, yellow and pale yellow) and texture (filamentous, moist, convex and fluffy). The GI activity produced by six (6) isolates were determined to be 5.29EU/ml, 4.89EU/ml, 5.29EU/ml, 5.09EU/ml, 4.39EU/ml and 4.9EU/ml. These findings demonstrate that endophytic Actinobacteria associated with G. senegalensis represent a promising microbial resource for GI production. Further studies on strain improvement and large-scale production and optimization are recommended to enhance its industrial production.

Key words: Glucose isomerase, Endophytic Actinobacteria, Guiera senegalensis, submerged fermentation, enzyme production.