Phytase from Weissella halotolerans: purification, partial characterisation and the effect of some metals

Abstract

In the study, phytase was purified in three simple steps comprising ammonium sulphate precipitation, anion exchange and gel filtration chromatography from Weissella halotolerans. The enzyme was obtained with a specific activity of 227.73 EU/mg and 6.52% recovery. The molecular mass of the enzyme was determined to be 41.52 kDa. The optimum pH and temperature for the enzyme were 6.0 and 50 degrees C, respectively. Furthermore, the effects of metal ions on the enzyme were investigated. Ag+, Zn2+, Cr2+ and Fe2+ ions inhibited phytase by 21.86, 25.63, 32.82 and 90.43%, respectively, whereas Co2+, Cu2+, Pb2+, Cd2+ ve Mn2+ ions increased the enzyme activity.