Optimization of Medium Composition for Growth of Leuconostoc mesenteroides

The MRS medium is widely used as an optimized medium for the growth of Lactobacillus spp. and also used for the growth of Leuconostoc spp. Leuconostoc mesenteroides shows quite different physicochemical properties compared to Lactobacilli spp. and it is one of the major strain of kimchi fermenting microorganisms with its usefulness in our traditional foods and availability in biotechnology in the future, specifically tailor-made medium is necessary for the growth of Leuconostoc mesenteroides. Sequential experimental designs (Plackett-Burman, fractional factorial, steepest ascent, central composite design and response surface methodology) were introduced to optimize and improve the Leuconostoc medium. Fifteen medium ingredients were investigated and fructose, sodium acetate and ammonium citrate were determined to give a critical and positive effect for cell-growth. The yield of biomass using the optimal medium was improved more than that of the MRS medium and the result of fed-batch culture showed the capability of the improvement in cell mass similar to the E.coli system.