Production of keratinases from Nocardiopsis sp.28ROR as a novel Iraqi strain

Abstract

Objectives: Isolation a novel feather-degrading actinobacterial species had the ability to produce keratinases and antibacterial substances. Methods: Of 23 actinobacterial isolates were recovered from farm soil, poultry farm soil and feather wastes, these isolates were screened for the protease, keratinase, and antibiotics production on skim milk agar, feather media, and Mauler-Hinton agar respectively. One potential isolate was identified depending on phenotypical, physiological and molecular characteristics according to the partial sequences of 16S rRNA gene analysis and optimized keratinase production. Results: 11 isolates out of 22 protease producer had the ability to degrade raw chicken feather and some of these isolates produced antibacterial metabolites against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 22.7% and 10%, respectively. The potential strain, Nocardiopsis sp. 28ROR (GenBank: KC702802.1), produced two types of extracellular keratinases in feather meal medium at pH 6 (acid type), 30-35°C for 7 days and the alkaline keratinase at pH 10, 40°C for 7 days, in addition to produce antibacterial against S. aureus. Conclusion: The Nocardiopsis sp. 28ROR was a novel strain produced keratinases using feather meal degradation as a cheap waste medium. The wide tolerance of temperature and pH by keratinase makes it an ideal contender to be investigated further for potential application as a detergent additive and produce antimicrobial substances using feather meal medium.