Exocellular β‐1,3 glucanase synthesis by continuous‐flow cultures of a thermophilic streptomycete

Production of a β‐1,3‐glucanase by a thermophilic streptomyces species in chemostat cultures was studied. In growth medium containing glycerol, synthesis of β‐1,3‐glucanase synthesis occurred at dilution rates less than 0.20 h−1. Chemostat cultures operating under non‐steady state conditions were optimal for glucanase production. Under the latter conditions of growth the extent of enzyme synthesis was dependent on the magnitude of the step down in dilution rate from an existing steady state value. Furthermore, induction of β‐1,3‐glucanase by gentiobiose only occurred during non‐steady state growth.