Identification and characterization of a novel endoglucanase (CMCase) isolated from the larval gut of Bombyx mori

While screening for cellulase-producing fungi from insect gut, a fungus with high endoglucanase (carboxymethyl cellulase; CMCase) activity was isolated from the larval gut of Bombyx mori. Based on morphological characteristics and using an 18S rRNA-based molecular phylogenetic approach, the fungus, strain BMC-2, was identified as a Mucor sp. expressing a novel alkalotolerant cellulase. The maximum production of cellulase by the BMC-2 strain was observed at 55 degrees C and pH 8.0. The CMCase activity was inhibited by Cu2+ > Na+ > Zn2+ > Mg2+ > Ba2+, and induced by Ca2+, Mn2+, Fe2+, and K+. Crown Copyright (C) 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Korean Society of Applied Entomology, Taiwan Entomological Society and Malaysian Plant Protection Society. All rights reserved.