lip2, a novel lipase gene cloned from Aspergillus niger exhibits enzymatic characteristics distinct from its previously identified family member.

We have cloned a novel lipase gene, lip2, from Aspergillus niger and expressed it in Escherichia coli. Upon purification of the recombinant Lip2 protein, its properties were characterized. In comparison with a previously identified lipase Lip1, both enzymes are acid lipases (optimal pH <6.5), Ca(2+)-dependent and PMSF-sensitive, but have different molecular weights (35 and 43 kDa), optimal substrate spectra (C10 and C8), optimal reaction temperatures (45 and 50 degrees C) and thermal stability. Circular dichroism spectroscopy revealed that Lip2 contains a typical Ca(2+)-active site. This first report on the cloning of the Lip2 gene and its enzymatic characteristics may greatly facilitate its potential industrial application.