Optimization of Critical Medium Components for Protein Production by Nostoc ellipsosporum Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

Nostoc ellipsosporum is a pharmaceutically important cyanobacteria known for the production of anti-HIV drug called cyanovirin. A five-level four factor central composite design of response surface methodology (RSM) was performed to identify the optimal level for maximum protein production. Four medium variables, PHA extract, glucose, Fe-EDTA and micronutrients, were chosen for RSM optimization study. Experimental data were analyzed by regression, and model equation was constructed. Maximum protein production was expected at the predicted optimal level of PHA extract, 2.50 % (v/v), glucose, 0.05 % (w/v), Fe-EDTA, 0.125 % (v/v) and micronutrients, 0.125 % (v/v). Validation experiment results were in good agreement with the results predicted by RSM. Results of this study showed that optimization by RSM approach improves the protein production, and also PHA extract was found to be a significant medium component for enhancing the protein synthesis.