Micellar impact of potassium laurate on biotic production of ergot – alkaloids

Ergot alkaloids, toxic compounds produced by fungus Claviceps purpurea have recently been at the centre of several food safety concerns and regulatory discussions. On going research aims to understand and control the biosynthesis of ergot alkaloids. Recent studies have focused on improving the detection and quantification of ergot alkaloids in food and pharmaceutical products. The micellar efficacy of potassium laurate on ergot alkaloids fermentation by Claviceps purpurea S -66 has been assessed. It has been found that potassium laurate under investigation has enhanced the yield of ergot alkaloids to an extent of 13.684% higher in comparison to control. i.e. 950 mg/per ltr.