Optimization of extracellular lipase production by Fusarium oxysporum

During screening of lipolytic fungi, a strain of Fusarium oxysporum was isolated. Culture conditions of liquid medium were optimized and the highest lipase production amounting 44.9 U/ml was achieved at the 5[th] day of cultivation at 30°C. The medium containing 0.2% [w/v] peptone and sunflower oil was used. Lipase activity was optimum at pH 7.0 and 55°C and a good stability up to 90% activity retention was observed at pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.0. The enzyme activity rapidly dropped at temperature above 70°C. Analysis of enzymatic glycerolysis of triolein by thin-layer chomatography showed a clear fatty acid spot