Genetic modification and optimization of endo-inulinase for the enzymatic production of oligofructose from inulin

The enzymatic hydrolyzation of inulin by endo-inulinase to produce oligofructoses, a new type of food additive and health product, is a promising, “green”, and environmentally friendly technique. To identify novel genetic sources of endo-inulinase genes and facilitate their industrial application for oligofructose production, we cloned an endo-inulinase gene from a Fusarium oxysporum strain and achieved high-level expression in the genetically modified Pichia pastoris strain in a pilot-scale bioreactor by using strategies such as C-terminal truncation and mutagenesis of protease-sensitive sites. We then optimized the parameters of the inulinase reaction and the amount of enzyme used to inulin hydrolysis and oligofructose production. The results of this study should facilitate the bulk production of inulinase and provide a reference for the industrial production of oligofructose from inulin.