Eco-Friendly Enzyme Production: Utilizing Invasive Wedelia trilobata L. for Cellulase Synthesis with Aspergillus niger

Abstract

Aim: This study explores the dual potential of Wedelia trilobata L., an invasive plant species, for cellulase enzyme production and antibacterial activity. The aim was to utilize Wedelia trilobata as a substrate for cellulase production using Aspergillus niger through Solid-State Fermentation (SSF) and evaluate the antibacterial properties of its extracts against clinically relevant pathogens.Materials and Methods: Fresh aerial parts of Wedelia trilobata were collected, processed, and used as a substrate for SSF. Aspergillus niger was cultured and screened for cellulase production using a zone clearance test on Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) agar. Cellulase activity was quantified using the DNS method, and protein content was estimated via Lowry’s method. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the well diffusion method against Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus) bacteria.Results: It was observed that Aspergillus niger effectively produced cellulase, with maximum enzyme activity observed at 120 hr of incubation. The protein concentration peaked at 831 µg/mL at the same time point. The cellulase enzyme demonstrated practical applications, such as ink stain removal from cotton cloth. Antibacterial assays revealed significant activity, with the highest zone of inhibition (15 mm) against E. coli and 13 mm against S. aureus. The extracts exhibited greater efficacy against Gram-negative bacteria compared to Gram-positive strains.Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of Wedelia trilobata as a sustainable substrate for cellulase production and a source of antibacterial compounds. The findings underscore the value of invasive species in biotechnological and pharmaceutical applications, offering eco-friendly solutions for resource utilization and environmental management.

Keywords: Wedelia trilobata; Cellulase; Solid-State Fermentation; Antibacterial