Optimization of Metal Ions in Sugarcane Bagasse Fermenting Medium for the Production of Streptokinase by Streptococcus equisimilis

Abstract

Streptokinase is a fibrinolytic enzyme and a product of β-hemolytic Streptococci strains. This enzyme is used as a medication to break down clots in some cases of heart disease. Streptococcus equisimilis, a species of group C Streptococci, is widely used for the production of streptokinase by fermentation technology. In this study, the sugarcane bagasse fermentation medium was optimized for metal ions (KH2PO4, MgSO4.7H2O, CaCO3 and NaHCO3) at various levels to attain the maximal production of streptokinase. Sugarcane bagasse was used due to its profuse availability and as an ideal substrate for microbial processes for the manufacturing of value-added products. The results showed that maximal streptokinase production was found at 0.04% KH2PO4, 0.04% MgSO4.7H2O, 0.15% NaHCO3 and 0.04% CaCO3. Finally, the optimized medium resulted in 84.75 U/mg specific activity and 74.5% recovery. The purification process was carried out simultaneously using ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography, and gel filtration. Finally, a purified sample of streptokinase was run on SDS-PAGE and resolute 47 kDa molecular weight. The use of β-hemolytic Streptococci to obtain streptokinase is not free from health risks and is related to anaphylaxis. This study provides a way forward for the cost-effective ways to obtain streptokinase for the treatment of thrombosis.