FERMENTATIVE PRODUCTION OF MELANIN BY AURICULARIA AURICULA

Low cost fermentation medium using wheat bran extract as a major nutrient source, was evaluated for production of melanin from the fungus Auricularia auricula in submerged culture. Effects of wheat bran extract, L-tyrosine and CuSO4 on tyrosinase activity and melanin yield were investigated. Results showed that wheat bran extract, L-tyrosine and CuSO4 concentrations influenced tyrosinase activity and increased melanin yield. Box-Behnken design indicated the following optimal medium composition: wheat bran extract 26.80% (v/v), L-tyrosine 1.59 g/L and CuSO4 0.11 g/L. Under these conditions, the highest melanin yield (519.54 mg/L) was obtained. Results from present study indicated fermentative production was an economical and efficient preparation method of melanin.