Studies on Pectolytic Enzymes of Molds

Abstract

Production of pectolytic enzymes in solid culture of Coniothyrium diplodiella andcharacteristics of those enzymes have been examined. Defatted rice bran was found to bethe most favorable culture medium, by use of which production of a significant quantityof the enzymes was observed after 3 to 4 days of culture at a temperature of 26°C.The optimum pH for the action of the enzymes of the said microorganism upon pecticsubstance ranged from 4 to 4.5. Fifty per cent of their activities were lost at 50°C in 10minutes, and 100% at 70°C. The enzymes were unstable at a pH above 6. It was presumedby paper chromatography that polygalacturonase of the said microorganism was divided into two types, liquefying and saccharifying polygalacturonases.