High level expression of a recombinant xylanase by Pichia pastoris NC38 in a 5Â L fermenter and its efficiency in biobleaching of bagasse pulp

► Thermomyces lanuginosus XynA was expressed in Pichia pastoris. ► Xylanase activity of 177 IU ml−1 observed on BMGY medium. ► Crude xylanase treated pulp showed 2.1 points increase in brightness. ► First report on recombinant xylanase in biobleaching of bagasse pulp.