EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF CULTIVATION CONDITIONS ON LIGNOCELLULOLYTIC ENZYME ACTIVITIES FROM WOLFIPORIA COCOS: POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS IN SPORTS NUTRITION AND RECOVERY

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the degradation mechanisms of lignocellulose by the fungus Wolfiporia cocos, identify key enzymes involved, and explore their production under varying culture conditions to enhance applications in sports nutrition and recovery. Method: The Wolfiporia cocos strain YX2 was collected and analyzed using microscopy to understand its culture characteristics. DNA extraction and PCR amplification followed, with sequences compared via BLAST and a phylogenetic tree constructed using ClustalX and MEGA software. Enzymatic activities for cellulase, hemicellulase, and lignin-degrading enzymes were quantified using a Microplate Reader, assessing conditions with and without pine wood chips to optimize enzyme production. Results: The study found optimal enzyme production at varying levels: cellulase enzymes (exo-β-glucanase, endo-β-glucanase, β-glucosidase) peaked at 16-37 U/mL, hemicellulase enzymes (xylanase, mannanase, α-glucosidase) at 9-342 U/mL, and lignin-degrading enzymes (MnP, Laccase, LiP) varied significantly based on culture additives, reaching up to 0.109 U/mL. The addition of Mn2+ and wood chips notably enhanced the secretion of these enzymes, demonstrating the influence of culture conditions on enzymatic activity. Conclusion: The detailed analysis confirms the significant role of culture conditions in optimizing the production of lignocellulolytic enzymes by Wolfiporia cocos. The substantial enzymatic activity observed offers promising implications for the development of natural supplements aimed at enhancing recovery and nutritional support in athletes. This enzymatic profile provides a foundation for further exploration into how these natural resources can be integrated into sports medicine and nutrition strategies, potentially aiding in faster recovery and improved performance among athletes.