Keratinolytic activity of Streptomyces sp. S.K1-02: a new isolated strain.

A Streptomyces sp. producing a high keratinolytic activity when cultured on feather meal medium was isolated from a naturally degraded feather. Maximal keratin degradation using supernatant fluid obtained from batch culture of this organism was observed at 70 degrees C and pH 10. Keratinolytic activity was only partially inhibited by EDTA or PMSF, suggesting that the overall keratinolytic activity was supported by different proteases. Comparisons between proteolytic activities derived from this new strain (S.K1-02) and commercial proteases indicated that S.K1-02 could be a useful biotechnological tool in valorization of keratin-containing wastes, or in the depilation process in the leather industry.