Enzyme System for Protein Extraction from Distillers Grains
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Solution Overview
Problem
In underdeveloped regions, there is a need for a cost-effective method to extract proteins from distillers grains and roots, which are currently not soluble or easily digestible, to address protein malnutrition, particularly in children, as they represent an underutilized source of protein in local diets.
Innovation Solution
A three-component enzyme system comprising a protease enzyme, a buffer to maintain pH for hydrolysis, a deactivating agent to stop the hydrolysis reaction, and a neutralizing agent to adjust pH, is used to convert proteins in distillers grains or roots into a water-soluble protein-rich broth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If proteins in distillers grains are extracted using conventional methods, then protein availability is limited, but the process is simple and low cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying pH levels through buffer addition to optimize protease enzyme activity. The buffer maintains pH in the range of 7.0-9.0, which maximizes protein hydrolysis efficiency and transforms insoluble proteins into soluble forms, thereby increasing protein availability without requiring complex equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces protease enzymes as intermediaries to facilitate protein extraction. These enzymes act as catalysts that break down proteins into peptides and amino acids, making them soluble and bioavailable. The enzyme system serves as a mediator between the insoluble grain proteins and the aqueous extraction medium
2Ease of operation
If distillers grains are used for animal feed, then protein source is available, but proteins are not soluble or easily digestible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical-chemical parameters of proteins through enzymatic hydrolysis. By controlling pH and temperature conditions, the insoluble protein structures are broken down into smaller, water-soluble peptides and amino acids that are easily digestible while maintaining high protein content
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical grinding or physical processing methods with biochemical enzymatic hydrolysis. Instead of using mechanical force to break down protein structures, protease enzymes chemically cleave peptide bonds, achieving better solubility and digestibility without mechanical complexity
3Productivity
If protease enzyme is added to hydrolyze proteins, then protein hydrolysis efficiency is improved, but pH control becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces buffers as intermediary substances to automatically maintain pH within the optimal range for protease activity. The buffer system acts as a chemical regulator that resists pH changes during hydrolysis, eliminating the need for complex pH monitoring and adjustment equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer system provides self-regulating pH control through its chemical properties. It automatically neutralizes acid or base formation during protein hydrolysis, maintaining the pH window for enzyme activity without external intervention or complex control systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The enzyme system effectively hydrolyzes proteins in distillers grains or roots, producing a protein-rich broth that can supplement diets, providing essential nutrients and improving nutritional outcomes while being economically viable.
Implementation Method 1
hydrolyzing proteins of said protein-containing heated aqueous mixture of b) above by adding an effective amount of an enzyme system comprised of a protease enzyme and a buffer capable of maintaining the heated aqueous mixture at a pH effective for the hydrolysis of proteins
Implementation Method 2
a buffer capable of maintaining the heated aqueous mixture at a pH effective for the hydrolysis of proteins
Implementation Method 3
stopping the hydrolysis reaction by adding a hydrolysis deactivating agent to the mixture of c) above
Data Source
AI summary
An enzyme system for the extraction of proteins from distillers grains and roots. The enzyme system is a three component system containing a first component of protease enzyme and a buffer, a second component comprised of a deactivating agent, and a third component comprised of neutralizing agent.