Optimization, Purification, and Starch Stain Wash Application of Two Newα-Amylases Extracted from Leaves and Stems ofPergularia tomentosa

Abstract

A continuous research is attempted to fulfil the highest industrial demands of natural amylases presenting special properties. Newα-amylases extracted from stems and leaves ofPergularia tomentosa, which is widespread and growing spontaneously in Tunisia, were studied by the means of their activities optimization and purification. Some similarities were recorded for the two identified enzymes: (i) the highest amylase activity showed a promoted thermal stability at 50°C; (ii) the starch substrate at 1% enhanced the enzyme activity; (iii) the twoα-amylases seem to be calcium-independent; (iv) Zn2+, Cu2+, and Ag2+were considered as important inhibitors of the enzyme activity. Following the increased gradient of elution on Mono Q-Sepharose column, an increase in the specific activity of 11.82-fold and 10.92-fold was recorded, respectively, for leaves and stems with the presence of different peaks on the purification profiles.Pergulariaamylases activities were stable and compatible with the tested commercial detergents. The combination of plant amylase and detergent allowed us to enhance the wash performance with an increase of 35.24 and 42.56%, respectively, for stems and leaves amylases. Characterized amylases were reported to have a promoted potential for their implication notably in detergent industry as well as biotechnological sector.