Optimization of thermostable alkaline protease production from species of Bacillus using rice bran

Abstract

A protease producing microorganism was isolated from soil collected from a detergent industry and 
identified as Bacillus species. Isolate K -30 produced thermostable alkaline protease utilizing rice bran. 
The optimum conditions for protease activity was 55°C at pH 9 with 4% inoculum in the medium 
containing 1% rice bran after 96 h of incubation. Beef extract, tryptone and yeast extract were good 
nitrogen sources while lactose, starch, and sucrose were suitable for enzyme production. The 
extracellular production of the enzyme, its thermostable nature and compatibility with most commercial 
detergents are features which suggest its application in the detergent industry.