GCTase production by a new strain of Bacillus alkalophilic CGII isolated from Brazilian wastewater of manioc flour industry was examined. The growth medium used was composed by 1.5% starch, 1.5% nitrogen and 1% Na2CO3. Higher activity was obtained with starch, maltodextrin and galactose. When glucose was added to the medium, no enzyme production was observed. High enzyme activity and growth were reached when aeration was increased (88.6 U/mL). The enzyme characterization showed an optimum pH and temperature 8.0 and 55ºC for starch hydrolyses, respectively. Mg+ and Ca++ showed small activation; however, Hg+ and Cu+ showed a strong enzyme inhibition.
Bacillus alkalophilic CGII; CGTase; beta-cyclodextrin; starch hydrolysis; enzyme activity
