Designing of an intensification process for biosynthesis and recovery of menaquinone-7.

A nutritional food rich in menaquinone-7 has a potential in preventing osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. The static fermentation of Bacillus subtilis natto is widely regarded as an optimum process for menaquinone-7 production. The major issues for the bulk production of menaquinone-7 are the low fermentation yield, biofilm formation and the use of organic solvents for the vitamin extraction.

Vitamin K series: current status and future prospects.

The Vitamin K series, particularly menaquinone, have been attracting research attention, due to the potential in reducing both osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. This review provides an overview of the types of vitamin K and their health benefits. This is followed by a critical review of the various biotechnological approaches used in the production of menaquinone, including solid and liquid state fermentations, extraction and recovery.

Effect of biofilm formation by Bacillus subtilis natto on menaquinone-7 biosynthesis.

Bacillus subtilis natto is the key microorganism for the industrial production of menaquinone-7. The fermentation of this bacterium in static culture is associated with biofilm formation. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of biofilm formation on menaquinone-7 production to develop a suitable bio-reactor for the production of menaquinone-7.

Efficient media for high menaquinone-7 production: response surface methodology approach.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of nutrients on the production of menaquinone-7 and determine the optimum conditions to achieve a high concentration of this product. Bacillus subtilis natto was fermented at 40°C for a period of six days. Design of experiments was used for screening the most effective nutrients, and central composite face design was employed for the optimization.