Optimized xylanase production by <i>Aspergillus tamarii</i> URM3266 in submerged fermentation using wheat bran as a lignocellulosic inducer

The study investigated the bioconversion of wheat bran into xylanases by A<i>spergillus tamarii</i> URM3266 under submerged fermentation. Initial screening of seven <i>Aspergillus</i> strains identified <i>A. tamarii</i> URM3266 as the most efficient xylanase producer (52.9 U/mL). Wheat bran was the best substrate for enzyme production (54.7 U/mL). A 2³ factorial design revealed that wheat bran concentration was the most significant factor, with high levels (4%) inhibiting enzymatic activity, while lower concentrations (1%) combined with urea (0.6 g/L) maximized production. Fermentation kinetics indicated peak enzyme activity (66.20 U/mL) at 72 h. Xylanase exhibited optimal activity at pH 5.0 and 50 °C, with high stability over a pH range of 4.0-6.0 and up to 50 °C. The kinetic parameters (K_m = 5.5 mg/mL; V_max = 96.15 U/mL) indicated good substrate affinity. The results highlight the potential of <i>A. tamarii</i> URM3266 and wheat bran for the sustainable production of xylanases with biotechnological applications.