Abstract
This study investigates the production and application of xylanases derived from the fungus Penicillium sp. FSDE15, obtained via solid-state fermentation (SSF). Wheat bran served as the substrate, either in its pure form or mixed with sisal fiber. Penicillium sp. underwent incubation in SSF for 168 h, with daily sampling to evaluate xylanase activity. Xylanase analyses were conducted under various temperature and pH conditions to optimize enzymatic activity, with the optimal conditions determined as 50°C and pH 4.8. SDS-PAGE electrophoresis revealed the enzyme's molecular weight as 66 kDa. Evaluation of Penicillium sp. xylanase for enzymatic hydrolysis of sugarcane straw (untreated and alkaline pretreated) and corn cob xylan showcased significant activity, with 102.34 U/g and a productivity of 1.67 U/g.h observed in 72 h, surpassing experiments with the blend of bran and sisal fiber. Electrophoresis analysis identified a single protein band at 66 kDa. Although optimal conditions were identified, the enzyme exhibited instability at alkaline pH values (> 6.0) and elevated temperatures (> 60°C). When compared to a commercial enzyme, FSDE15 demonstrated satisfactory performance in saccharification and xylooligosaccharide (XOS) production, including X2, indicating its biotechnological potential. This study underscores the efficacy of SSF in xylanase production by Penicillium sp. FSDE15 has implications for converting lignocellulosic biomass into value-added products, particularly in saccharification and XOS production.