Production and characterisation of lignocellulases of Panus tigrinus and their application

This study on the lignocellulases in broth cultures of the basidiomycete Panus tigrinus indicates that laccase and xylanase enzymes are constitutive and cellulase is inducible. In stationary culture at 28°C, the greatest laccase and xylanase activity was observed after growth for approximately nine days. Laccase production was dependent on the presence, and the particular brand, of malt extract in the growth medium. While production of laccase was enhanced by growth at 37°C and 42°C, xylanase was not. Raising the pH of the growth medium from pH 5.6 to pH 7.0 did not affect xylanase production, but laccase production was reduced at the higher pH. In shake culture, growth was pelleted and biomass lower than in stationary culture, and synthesis of both enzymes was strongly inhibited. Cultures of P. tigrinus decolourised Poly R-478 and the toxic triphenyl methane dye, crystal violet. It was also shown to degrade a natural lignocellulosic waste, sawdust.