Biosynthesis of Ergot Alkaloids by Penicillium citrinum through Surface Culture Fermentation Process

The present study deals with the production of ergot alkaloids from Penicillium sp. IIB and the optimization of culture conditions for enhanced production of ergot alkaloids. The strain of Penicillium citrinum was proved to be considerably useful for biotechnological purposes. The effect of temperature, pH, tryptophan, asparagine, different supplementary nitrogen and carbon sources and KH2PO4 on ergot alkaloids production was optimized during the study. Ergot alkaloids were produced between 23C and 30C incubation temperatures, with maximum yield (2.01 g/l) at 25C. Maximum ergot alkaloid production was achieved at pH 5 (2 mg/l) with maximum incubation period of 21 days.