Optimization of a pellicular biocatalyst for penicillin G production by Penicillium chrysogenum

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Abstract
A previously developed immobilization technique involving latex coatings on solid particulate supports was investigated further for penicillin G production by Penicillium chrysogenum. Several modifications were found to decrease the germination lag time, including a higher spore concentration, a thinner latex layer, an increased latex porosity, and a decreased drying time. This approach enabled the development of immobilized mycelial pellets within 2–3 days from the onset of biocatalyst preparation and incubation.A continuous immobilized‐cell airlift bioreactor produced penicillin G in a series of runs in which the production phase lasted up to 30 days. The productivity of this system was 3–6 times greater than the productivity of the corresponding free‐cell shake flask fermentation.