Microbial bioreactors for secondary metabolite production

Abstract

The production of microbial secondary metabolites requires, besides nutrients, a well-designed bioreactor. This instrument needs to supply the culture conditions to microorganisms to induce the production of the desired metabolites. Different configuration of bioreactors has been used for the production of microbial secondary metabolites. It includes bioreactors for submerged fermentation and solid-state fermentation. The stirred tank bioreactor is widely used for microbial growth and the production of secondary metabolites. Bubble column and air-lift bioreactors are the alternatives for shear force-sensitive cells. Solid-state bioreactors such as trays, packed beds, and stirred and rotating drums have been used for the production of secondary metabolites. Biofilm bioreactors are particular since they are used with microbes capable of forming biofilms. The present chapter describes the commonly used microbial bioreactors and exemplifies how their particularities allow microbes not only to grow but to produce secondary metabolites.