Enhanced Monacolin K Production in Monascus purpureus Via Mutagenesis and Nitrogen Source Optimization

Monascus fungi are valued for their production of Monacolin K (MK), a bioactive compound with recognized lipid‐lowering and multifunctional properties. To enhance MK yield in solid‐state fermentation, this study combined atmospheric and room‐temperature plasma (ARTP) mutagenesis with L‐arginine supplementation. A mutant strain, C‐23, was obtained, and the addition of L‐arginine increased MK production by 97.3%, reaching 9.45 mg/g. Untargeted metabolomics revealed that L‐arginine reshaped metabolic pathways related to amino acids, cofactors, carbohydrates, and lipids, elucidating the mechanism behind MK overproduction. This work provides a strategic approach for developing high‐yielding Monascus strains and offers insights into the metabolic regulation of MK biosynthesis.