An isolated Amycolatopsis sp. GDS for cellulase and xylanase production using agricultural waste biomass

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate an isolate of Amycolatopsis sp. GDS for cellulase and xylanase production, their characterization, and its application to the preparation of biomass feedstock for ethanol production. Methods and Results: A novel potent cellulolytic bacterial strain was isolated and identified as Amycolatopsis sp. GDS. The strain secreted high levels of cellulase and xylanase in the presence of agricultural waste biomass. The enzymes were thermostable and active up to 70°C. Interestingly, the enzymes were expressed well at higher NaCl (up to 2·5 mol l^-1) and ionic liquid (10%) concentrations, so that they could be used during the pretreatment of biomass. Enzyme stability in the presence of organic solvents, surfactants and oxidizing agents was also noted. Crude enzymes from Amycolatopsis sp. GDS resulted in comparable saccharification (60%) of wheat straw to commercial enzymes (64%). Conclusions: The cellulolytic enzymes from Amycolatopsis sp. GDS were stable, expressed well under conditions with various chemicals, and yielded significant amounts of hydrolysates from the biomass. The high bioethanol production using yeast co-cultures with enzymatic hydrolysates highlights the significance of selecting the strain and substrate for biofuel production. Significance and Impact of the Study: This study demonstrates the importance of the isolate Amycolatopsis sp. GDS that secretes high levels of cellulase and hemicellulase by utilizing agricultural waste biomass and its application in the preparation of biomass feedstock and sequential ethanol fermentation.