Optimization of Lipase Production Medium for a Bacterial Isolate

Lipases are versatile biocatalysts that are used extensively in detergent and pharmaceutical formulations. Lipases have an immense potential for being employed as industrial catalysts for production of fine chemicals. Their superior value arises from specificity and efficacy as compared to chemical catalysts. However new lipases with properties amenable for application in specific industrial process are being sought by the researchers. In the present paper we have isolated a bacterial strain ISC 1 that showed high lipase production of 25 units/ml from soil obtained from a site of regular oil spill. The process optimization studies like media manipulation and optimization of environmental conditions resulted in further enhancement of enzyme activity to about 42 units/ml. Lipase production known to be induced when lipids such as vegetable oils are included in the medium as carbon source. The potential to induce lipase production is dependent on the type of oil used. In our study inclusion of mustard oil in medium resulted in highest lipase production. The oil in the medium is utilized effectively when it is emulsified with emulsifier like gum acacia.