Characterization and Biotechnological Functional Activities of Exopolysaccharides Produced by Lysinibacillus fusiformis KMNTT-10

In this study, the production and physicochemical characterization of exopolysaccharide (EPS) produced by Lysinibacillus fusiformis KMNTT-10 were investigated. Also, in vitro assays were conducted to investigate the biotechnological functional activities of EPS, including flocculation, emulsification, and antioxidant activity. Results showed that the maximum EPS produced by strain KMNTT-10 was 4.19 g/l after 120 h. The monosaccharides present in EPS were xylose, rhamnose, arabinose, galactose, and glucose in varying combinations. Characterization of EPS by FTIR and XRD analysis revealed the presence of hydroxyl, amino, and carboxyl functional groups and further, the EPS is an amorphous nature. SEM envisaged a highly porous web-like structure with an irregular surface in the EPS morphology. Further, the EPS had good flocculation activity with a maximum of 89.66% and also had potent emulsifying activity towards hydrocarbons with 1% EPS concentration. The EPS showed good antioxidant activity by potent scavenging actions on DPPH, ABTS, and nitric oxide free radicals. Overall results demonstrated that EPS of KMNTT-10 could be used in various industrial applications due to its excellent flocculation, emulsification potential, and good antioxidant activity.