Screening, isolation, and fermentation optimization of indigenous Streptomyces spp. for enhanced methioninase production

This preliminary study focuses on the isolation and characterization of indigenous Streptomyces spp. from the Upper Lake of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India, with an emphasis on their potential to produce L-methioninase, an enzyme with significant therapeutic applications in cancer treatment. Sample collection was conducted from five locations around the lake, followed by isolation on starch casein agar and characterization through morphological and biochemical tests. The screening identified isolates capable of methioninase production, with two isolates (S2 and S3) demonstrating significant enzyme activity. The study further optimized liquid state fermentation conditions to enhance enzyme production, evaluating the effects of various carbon sources, pH levels, and temperature. Results indicated that sucrose was the most effective carbon source, yielding the highest enzyme activity (S2: 21.236 U/mL; S3: 23.243 U/mL) at neutral pH (7) and 30°C. The findings underscore the influence of environmental factors on microbial diversity and enzymatic potential in nutrient-rich ecosystems like the Upper Lake. This research contributes valuable insights into bioprospecting for indigenous microbial strains with promising enzymatic properties, highlighting the potential for developing effective microbial-based therapies for cancer treatment through optimized L-methioninase production. The results lay the groundwork for future studies aimed at large-scale enzyme production for therapeutic applications, advancing the field of enzyme therapy in oncology.