Protease production from Lysinibacillus fusiformis strain C250R: Statistical optimization and compatibility study for use in detergent formulations

In this study, we aimed to optimize the cultural and nutritional conditions for protease production by Lysinibacillus fusiformis strain C250R in submerged fermentation process using statistical methodology. The most significant factors (gruel, wheat bran, yeast extract, and FeSO4) were identified by Plackett-Burman design. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimum levels of the screened factors and their interaction. Under the optimized conditions, protease yield 3045 U/mL was 4.5 folds higher than those obtained by the use of the initial conditions (680 U/mL). Additionally, this research demonstrated that the protease activity of strain C250R has a high detergent compatibility and an excellent stain removal compared to Alcalase Ultra 2.5 L; which offers an interesting potential for its application in the laundry detergent industry.