Abstract

Lipase in oilseeds helps to hydrolyze the ester bonds of storage triacylglycerols. The crude lipase from the conophor nut (Tetracarpidium conophorum) was isolated and assayed via quantification of the free fatty acids liberated by the hydrolysis of the oilseed triacylglycerols. Optimum pH and temperature for the enzyme activity of the conophor nut lipase was pH 8.0 and at 30°C with substantial lipolysis at 80°C, underscoring the thermostability of the enzyme. The effects of different ions on the activity of the isolated lipase were examined. NaCl and EDTA inhibited activity by various degrees, while Ca²⁺ and Hg⁺ enhanced the enzyme activity. The results of the present study show that the lipase from conophor nut can favourably be exploited to complement existing lipase sources.

Key words: Conophor nut, lipase activity, temperature, pH.