Identification of Phytase Producing Yeast and Optimization & Characterization of Extracellular Phytase from Candida Parapsilosis

Among sixty one yeast isolates from various samples, twelve were capable of producing phytase. Out of twelve, 5 isolates showed maximum phytase activity. CB3 isolate was selected for further study. CB3 isolate was genetically characterized as Candida parapsilosis. The crude extract was optimized for maximum enzyme activity. The enzyme was stable between the pH 2 to 7 but the optimal pH was found to be 3. The enzyme was also stable between temperature ranges 25° C to 45°C but best temperature for enzyme activity was found to be 37° C. Enzymatic activity of crude extract was 20.6 U/ml after 24 h of incubation. Maximum phytase activity was increased to 56.2 U/ml at pH 3 after 24 h of incubation under optimal conditions. Total protein present was 0.6 mg/ml in crude extract by SMF but as high as 3.5 mg/ml by SSF.