The effect of pH on prodigiosin production by non-proliferating cells of Serratia marcescens

Abstract

The synthesis of prodigiosin by non-proliferating cells of Serratia marcescens was examined at various pH values between 5.5 and 9.5. During incubation in unbuffered medium, pH changed and prodigiosin production was similar regardless of the initial pH. Variations in pigment production were noted when buffers were employed in cultures of non-proliferating cells. The optimum pH for prodigiosin production was 8.0-8.5. Proline oxidase was also measured. The results suggest that the effect of pH may be related to the amount of proline which can be incorporated into prodigiosin.