Optimization of Ergosterol Saponification Conditions in Monascus Mycelium

The single factor test and orthogonal experiments had been carried out to optimize the condition of ergosterol saponification from the Monascus sp.ZZ mycelium.The result of single factor test indicated that the optimal conditions were 20% of caustic soda concentration,2∶1 of ethanol to alkali,1∶1 of sample to the alkali,and saponification at 90℃ for 2 h.Orthogonal test showed that the effect order among the factors were the saponified temperature the saponified time the ratio of sample to saponifier the caustic soda concentration the ratio of ethanol to alkali.The optimal ratio of sample to saponifier,caustic soda concentration,ratio of ethanol to alkali,saponified temperature,and saponified time are 1∶1,15%,4∶1,90℃,3 h,respectively.