Enhanced production of laccase in repeated-batch cultures of Funalia trogii and Trametes versicolor

The biotechnologically important enzyme laccase (benzenediol: oxygen oxidoreductase; EC 1.10.3.2) is secreted by white rot fungi. However, these organisms produce insufficient amount of laccase for use in various biotechnological areas. The main aim of this study is to enhance the laccase production in the repeated-batch cultures of Funalia trogii ATCC 200800 and Trametes versicolor ATCC 200801 isolated in Turkey. In this study, laccase production in the repeated-batch cultures of F. trogii and T. versicolor pre-grown pellets were investigated under various conditions. Retention time, temperature, agitation, pH and the amount of pellets were found to be important for laccase production during repeated-batch studies. The culture filtrate showed one protein band. Zymogram gel also showed only one band of activity. The enzyme remained fully active when frozen for 300 days. The immobilized fungi were also able to produce high amounts of laccase during reuse. It is possible to obtain high laccase amounts with free and immobilized repeated-batch cultures under the most appropriate culture conditions determined. Considering the various biotechnological applications of laccase, an enhancement in laccase production through the selection of appropriate culture conditions could facilitate the development of more economical and environmentally friendly processes.