Screening, optimization and production of a novel-cyclodextrinase by Bacillus flexus MSBC 2

CGTase (Cyclodextrin Glycosyl Transferase), is an important starch modifying enzyme catalyzing conversion of starch and related polysaccharide into cyclodextrins (CDs), which have important applications in numerous industries. In the present study, a potent CGTase producing bacteria was isolated from corn field soil. The bacteria was identified by microscopic and biochemical tests along with 16s rRNA to be as Bacillus flexus MSBC 2. From plate assay it was seen that only β-CD was produced. Submerged fermentation parameters for CGTase production was optimized and the best process parameters after optimization was found to be incubation period 5 days, pH 10.0, temperature 37°C, peptone with yeast extract as best nitrogen source and 2% corn starch as best carbon source. A 3.0 fold increase in enzyme production was observed after optimizing the cultural conditions. The bacterium is specifically producing β-CGTase which is of high commercial value in industries as generally bacterial CGTases produce mixture of cyclodextrins.