Proteinase Production by Bacillus subtilis

Abstract

Formation of caseinase by B. subtilis was poor in nutrient broths prepd. from one brand of beef extract and peptone, and good in broths prepd. from 2 others in spite of little difference in growth. Substantial proteinase production occurred in the unsatisfactory broths when ash from an adequate medium or MnSO4[long dash]but not Zn, Cu, Fe, B, Mg or Ca compounds[long dash]were added. Addition of Mn with various combinations of Zn, Cu, B, Ti, Ni, Co, Mo, Br and I enhanced proteinase formation still further. Addition of Mn at the end of the growth period to weakly proteolytic cultures did not increase the activity. Greater total proteolytic activity is obtained more rapidly in agitated than in stationary cultures.