Evaluation of surfactant effect on β-poly(L-malic acid) production by Aureobasidium pullulans

β-poly(L-malic acid) (PMLA) is a highly water-soluble biopolymer used in medicine and other industries. PMLA is usually biosynthesized by Aureobasidium pullulans, but in low concentrations, which has restricted its further large-scale production. Here effects of surfactants on PMLA production were investigated. Of various surfactants examined, the addition of Tween 80 at the start of cell growth increased mycelial growth, PMLA production, PMLA productivity and the ratio of PMLA to cell biomass concentration (Yp/x) of A. pullulans. Transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometry showed that cell membrane permeability was increased, improving the secretion of PMLA and uptake of nutrients and oxygen. Proteomic analysis showed that key pathways of PMLA synthesis, along with cellular energy metabolism, were enhanced. Moreover, glutathione (GSH) synthesis and anti-oxidation capacity were also improved. These results indicated that the addition of Tween 80 is an efficient approach for improving the production of PMLA.