Optimal immobilization of beta-galactosidase from Pea (PsBGAL) onto Sephadex and chitosan beads using response surface methodology and its applications.

Response surface methodology (RSM) and centre composite design (CCD) were used to optimize immobilization of beta-galactosidase (BGAL) from Pisum sativum onto two matrices: Sephadex G-75 and chitosan beads. The immobilization efficiency of 75.66% and 75.19% were achieved with Sephadex G-75 and chitosan, respectively. There was broad divergence in physico-chemical properties of Sephadex-PsBGAL and chitosan-PsBGAL. Chitosan-PsBGAL was better suited for industrial application based on its broad pH and temperature optima, higher temperature stability, reusability etc. Sephadex-PsBGAL and chitosan-PsBGAL showed much variation in their catalytic properties with respect to soluble enzyme. About 50% loss in activity of Sephadex-PsBGAL and chitosan-PsBGAL were observed after 12 and 46 days at 4 degrees C, respectively. Chitosan-PsBGAL showed higher rate of lactose hydrolysis present in milk and whey at room temperature and 4 degrees C than Sephadex-PsBGAL. In both cases, lactose of milk whey was hydrolyzed at higher rate than that of milk.