Red pigment production by Penicillium purpurogenum GH2 is influenced by pH and temperature

J Zhejiang Univ Sci B. 2011 Dec;12(12):961-8. doi: 10.1631/jzus.B1100039.

Abstract

The combined effects of pH and temperature on red pigment production and fungal morphology were evaluated in a submerged culture of Penicillium purpurogenum GH2, using Czapek-Dox media with d-xylose as a carbon source. An experimental design with a factorial fix was used: three pH values (5, 7, and 9) and two temperature levels (24 and 34 °C) were evaluated. The highest production of red pigment (2.46 g/L) was reached with a pH value of 5 and a temperature of 24 °C. Biomass and red pigment production were not directly associated. This study demonstrates that P. purpurogenum GH2 produces a pigment of potential interest to the food industry. It also shows the feasibility of producing and obtaining natural water-soluble pigments for potential use in food industries. A strong combined effect (p<0.05) of pH and temperature was associated with maximal red pigment production (2.46 g/L).

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological / physiology
  • Cell Size
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Penicillium / chemistry*
  • Penicillium / cytology
  • Penicillium / metabolism*
  • Pigments, Biological / biosynthesis*
  • Temperature

Substances

  • Pigments, Biological