Isolation of Phytase-Producing Pseudomonas sp. and Optimization of its Phytase Production

Phytase (myo-inositol hexakisphosphate phospho-hydrolase, EC 3.1.3.8) catalyzes the hydrolysis of phytate (myo-inositol hexakisphosphate) to release inorganic phosphate. A bacterial strain producing phytase was isolated from soil around a cattle shed. To identify the strain, cellular fatty acids profiles, the GC contents, a quinine-type analysis, and physiological test using an API 20NE kit were carried out. The strain was identified to be a genus of Pseudomonas sp. and named as Pseudomonas sp. YH40. The optimum culture condition for the maximum productivity of phytase by Pseudomonas sp. YH40 were attained in a culture medium composed of $1.0\%$ (w/v) glycerol, $2.0\%$ (w/v) peptone, and $0.2\%$ (w/v) $FeSO_4{\cdot}7H_2O$. Within the optimal medium condition, the production of phytase became highest after 10 h of incubation, and the maximal phytase production by Pseudomonas sp. YH40 was observed at $37^{\circ}C$ and pH 6.0.