Production of microbial enzymes and their stabilization by encapsulation

The present thesis deals with the production of microbial enzymes and their subsequent stabilization through encapsulation. The theoretical part focuses on microbial enzymes, especially extracellular hydrolases, their producers and characteristics. Within the theory is also discussed the possibility of the application of enzymes in the field of pharmacy and medicine. Experimental work was focused on the actual production of microbial enzymes and methods for their to stabilization. The production of proteolytic and lipolytic enzymes in dependence on time and the used culture substrate were followed. The highest enzyme production was observed in Aspergillus oryzae when cultured on wheat bran at the third day of cultivation. In the experimental part was further carried out the identification, isolation and purification of enzymes. A substantial part of the experiment was to stabilize produced microbial enzymes by encapsulation. Enzymes were entrapped into alginate particles with encapsulation efficiency in the range of 55-70 %. The highest efficiency exhibited encapsulated enzymes from Aspergillus oryzae. Subsequently, long-term stability of the encapsulated enzyme in two environments (in water and gel) was followed during six weeks incomparison with free enzyme. During storage of free enzyme a significant decrease in enzyme activities occured, especially between the fourth and sixth week of storage. On the contrary, in encapsulated increased enzyme activities were observed. Empty particles exhibited higher stability during storage in the gel than in water. In this thesis potential use of enzymes in the pharmaceutical industry as agents promoting digestion was tested too. According to the results, particles with encapsulated microbial enzymes could be considered as suitable for some pharmaceutical applications