Production of Pigments under Submerged Culture through Repeated Batch Fermentation of Immobilized Talaromyces atroroseus GH2

Abstract

Pigments of natural origin have become a research trend, and fungi provide a readily available alternative source. Moreover, developing novel processes that increase yields, reduce process time and simplify downstream processing is of increased interest. In this sense, this work proposes an alternative for Talaromyces atroroseus GH2 biomass re-utilization to produce pigments through consecutive batches using immobilized mycelium. Different support materials were evaluated for pigment production and immobilization capacity. Then, Taguchi’s method was applied to determine the effect of four factors related to fungal immobilization and pigment production (inoculum concentration, support density, working volume and support volume). Afterward, process kinetics for pigment production using immobilized cells of T. atroroseus GH2 in consecutive batches were evaluated. All evaluated factors were significant and affected pigment production and microorganism growth differently. At improved conditions, immobilization capacity reached 99.01 ± 0.37% and the pigment production was 30% higher than using free cells. Process kinetics showed that the production could continue for three batches and was limited by excessive microorganism growth. Indeed, more studies are still needed, but the immobilization of Talaromyces atroroseus GH2 represents a promising strategy for allowing downstream-processing intensification since immobilized biomass is easily removed from the fermentation media, thus paving the way for the further development of a continuous process.

Genomic Sequence Resource of Talaromyces albobiverticillius, the Causative Pathogen of Pomegranate Pulp Rot Disease

“…Remarkably, T. atroroseus, which happens to be the nearest relative to T. albobiverticillius, is renowned for its ability to produce monascus pigments, which are highly applicable in the food industry [37]. A draft genome of a prospective fungal cell factory, T. atroroseus IBT 11181 (CBS 123796), was reported in 2017 [38].…”

Pigment Production Using Submerged Fermentation

“…Over the past decade, immobilized cell fermentation has been viewed as a promising biotechnological tool and provides an efficient approach in terms of productivity, stability, extraction, and process control. Ruiz-Sánchez et al [9] with immobilized cells of T. atroroseus GH2 using different support material to produce red pigments. The authors reported that at improved conditions, pigment production was 30% higher than using free cells, accompanied by a long-lasting immobilization activity (99.01 ± 0.37%).…”