Fermentation of microorganisms
We use bioreactors of various sizes (20-250 litres), with a total capacity of 500 litres. In order to determine and optimize fermentation parameters, we use process control systems with the opportunity of on-line measurement of CO2 and O2 in the exhaust, as well as pO2, pH and temperature in the culture broth. We also have shakers for more than 1000 culture flasks for small scale applications.
Extraction, purification and characterization of secondary metabolites and enzymes
We are fully equipped for solid- and liquid-phase extraction, flash chromatograpy, analytical and preparative HLPC systems including DAD detection, HPLC-MS, UV spectrometry and a Medium-Pressure Chromatography Systems (FPLC) for protein purification. Libraries of chromatographic and spectroscopic data exist for most of these systems and are extended continuously.
Established test systems and strain collections
We perform assays for the identification of antibacterial, antifungal, phytotoxic, cytotoxic, nematicidal and insecticidal activity. The IBWF non-profit strain collection comprises about 18000 fungal isolates including ascomycetes, basidiomycetes, zygomycetes and imperfect fungi as well as coprophiles and endophytes. We also hold a collection of 400 fungal mutant strains having directed gene manipulations, e.g. gene inactivations, overexpression of target genes or gene-fusions to fluorescent markers.