Optimization of culture conditions for improved laccase production by agaricus SP. LCJ262

Five different white rot fungi were isolated and screened for laccase production. The white rot fungus LCJ262 was found to exhibit high activity of laccase and was identified as Agaricus sp. according to the morphological characteristics. The culture parameters influencing the production of laccase by Agaricus sp. LCJ262 were optimized using one factor at a time method. Initially, five different basal media were tested and one best medium was selected for laccase production. Sucrose (20 g/L) and yeast extract (20 g/L) were the best carbon and nitrogen source, respectively for laccase production. Additional supplementation of 0.6 mM of copper sulphate and 0.2 mM of ferulic acid proved to be the best inducers for laccase production. An improved laccase production was also obtained with the addition of 0.2 g/L of powdered paddy straw (natural inducer) in the medium. An initial medium pH of 6.0, inoculum size of 5 g/L and shaking condition also augmented laccase production in Agaricus sp LCJ262. Isoenzyme determination of extracellular laccase from Agaricus sp. LCJ262 showed single laccase isoform.