Optimization of Nutrient and Physical Parameters for the Enhanced Dibenzothiophene Desulfurization Activity by Streptomyces sp. VUR PPR 102

Aim: To determine the response of Dibenzothiophene (pollutant present in fossil fuels and responsible for sulfur dioxide pollution) desulfurization (selective release of sulfur) activity by Streptomyces sp. VUR PPR 102 to various types of nutrients (carbon and nitrogen ingredients) and amino acid sources and physical conditions (pH and temperature) and to find out the optimum nutrients and physical conditions for enhanced desulfurization activity. Materials and Methods: For all experimental studies, basal salt medium supplemented with DBT as sulfur source with individual nutrient components of various concentrations to be tested was used to inoculate the Streptomyces sp. VUR PPR 102 and incubated at different pH and temperature conditions. Results: The best nutrient sources (carbon and nitrogen) for highest dibenzothiophene desulfurization activity were reported to be glucose (3%) and potassium nitrate (1%), respectively. The amino acid source, glutamine (0.3 mg/mL) enhanced DBT desulfurization activity. The optimum physical parameters were reported to be 30ºC and pH 7.0 for maximum biodesulfurization. Conclusion: The optimized medium and physical conditions for enhanced desulfurization activity by the test organism were determined. Such organisms can be genetically improved further and in future can be employed in refining of fossil fuels for the selective elimination of sulfur.