Protease Producing Bacteria from Soil in Gumel Metropolis, Jigawa State of Nigeria

Abstract

Proteases, one of the most significant industrial enzymes, account for a major share of about 70% of total global enzyme market. Microorganisms serve as a preferred source of such enzymes due to the limited space required for their cultivation, their fast growth and the simplicity with which they can be genetically manipulated to produce different enzymes with various properties that are desired for their numerous applications. The current research work was carried out to identify protease producing bacteria from soil of Gumel Metropolis, Jigawa State of Nigeria. A total of 20 bacteria were isolated from 12 soil samples collected from different sites in Gumel Metropolis. The 20 isolates were subjected for protease production by using skimmed milk agar. Among all the subjected isolates, 06 were found protease producers. The isolates were further identified through their morphological, microscopic and some biochemical examinations. The results of the study revealed that the soil of Gumel Metropolis has protease producing bacteria that exhibit proteolytic activities and biochemical features. However, intense research works are needed in the study area to reveal more reliable information.