Production of Penicillins (Antibiotic)

Microorganism Used

• Penicillium chrysogenum (previously Penicillium notatum)

Fermentation Process

1. Fermenter Type: Stirred-tank bioreactor

2. Fermentation Method: Fed-batch fermentation (to avoid catabolite repression by glucose)

3. Medium Composition: 

   • Carbon source: Lactose, corn steep liquor

   • Nitrogen source: Ammonium salts

   • Precursors: Phenylacetic acid (for Penicillin G)

4. Conditions: 

   • pH: 6.0-6.5

   • Temperature: 24-26°C

   • Aeration: High oxygen supply (aerobic process)

   • Duration: 5-7 days

5. Downstream Processing: 

   • Filtration to remove mycelium

   • Extraction using organic solvents (e.g., amyl acetate)

   • Precipitation and crystallization to obtain penicillin powder

Applications

• Used to treat bacterial infections (Gram-positive bacteria)