Optimization of protease production from newly isolated strain of <i>Bacillus </i>sp. PCSIR EA-3

Abstract

286-290A newly isolated strain of Bacillus sp. PCSIR EA-3 showed maximum protease production in 48 h. Cell free filtrate (CFF) from the strain was investigated for its proteolytic activity. The isolated strain exhibited highest proteolytic activity when grown on skim milk agar; average area of zone of inhibition was 480 mm2. Enzyme showed maximum activity at 35°C and pH 7.0 with glucose as an important medium component. It was strongly activated by metal ions, such as, Ca+2 ion. Protease from PCSIR EA-3 can easily be used in food industry, especially in cheese manufacturing due to its thermostability at neutral pH