Production and Biochemical Characterization of Cellulase Enzyme by Trichoderma Strains from Harran Plain

Abstract

In this research, Trichoderma spp. fungus, a major producer of cellulase, that was isolated from Harran plain had been investigated. Morphological, microscopic and genetic identification of the six fungi isolates were carried out and their cellulase production ability were determined. The ITS region of four of the isolates were displayed over 90% similarity with the DNA sequences of Trichoderma spp. currently deposited into the databases. The molecular size of fungal cellulase was found as to be 32 kDa by SDS-PAGE analysis. Optimum working conditions of cellulase had also been studied. The optimal temperature for cellulase enzyme activity was 40 ° C, optimum pH 5.0, best reacting time 60 min and ideal substrate concentration was determined as 2% CMC. The fungal cellulase activity was compared with the activity of the commercial cellulase enzyme. The fermentation produced enzyme by using Trichoderma spp. isolated from Harran plain displayed remarkable cellulase activity.