Process development for antifungal production by Bacillus subtilis BS20

Researchers have demonstrated how Bacillus subtilis BS20 can be optimized as a potent biocontrol agent for agriculture by scaling up antifungal metabolite production. Using the INFORS HT Labfors bench-top bioreactor, the team developed a process model and validated scale-up from 1 L to 10 L fermentation, maintaining high antifungal activity with a zone of inhibition up to 65 mm. This study offers a scalable, sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides through microbial fermentation.