Microscopic examination of keratin substrates subjected to the action of the enzymes of Streptomyces fradiae

A filtrate from a Streptomyces fradiae culture was used as a source of highly active (2000 U/g) and stable proteolytic enzymes. The preparation was used for the degradation of sheep's wool, chicken feathers, guinea pig hair and human hair. The effects of the enzyme action were controlled under light and scanning electron microscopes. The degradation was quickest in the case of wool (after 24 h), then chicken feathers and guinea pig hair (four days). Human hair underwent degradation after 17 days. The radical changes in the structure of the materials indicate a possibility of employing the proteolytic preparation of Streptomyces fradiae on a technological scale.