Production of cell-wall-bound proteinases in Bifidobacterium adolescentis 94-BIM

Bifidobacterium adolescentis 94-BIM was found to produce cell-wall-bound proteolytic enzymes active at acidic, neutral, and alkaline pH values. The solubilization of proteinases with 0.5% Triton X-100 substantially improved the yield of the enzymes. The most active accumulation of cell-bound proteinases was observed in the third hour of cultivation at rates of 156.7, 179.5, and 111.1 U/(mg h), measured at pH 2.5, 7.0, and 9.0, respectively. It is suggested that the cell-wall-bound proteinases of B. adolescentis 94-BIM are the precursors of the enzymes secreted into the medium.