Optimization of fermentation conditions for the production of epothilone B

Abstract Epothilone is a macrolide secondary metabolite which has the same anticancer effect as paclitaxel. Based on a series of single‐factor experiments, four factors, temperature, initial pH, rotation speed, and inoculum quantity, which have the greatest influence on yield, were determined. Four factors were designed and orthogonal experiments were carried out to optimize the fermentation conditions. Finally, the best experimental conditions were obtained as follows: 250 ml flapper triangular flask was used. The yield of epothilone B was 39.76 mg/L at 30℃, initial pH = 7.4, rotating speed 200 r/min, inoculation amount 10%, liquid loading amount 50 ml/250 ml, fermentation time 6 days and seed age 60 hr.