Aims: To develop a microplate-based high-throughput assay for the detection of succinic acid, which is widely used in many fields of industry. The assay can also be applied to screen high succinic acid-producing strains.
Methods and results: Here, we developed a double-enzyme-based succinic acid detection assay using fumarate reductase and peroxidase (named FRDP assay) to screen and isolate high succinic acid-producing bacteria. The assay was performed in 96-well microplate in a high-throughput and had a well linear detection range of succinic acid from 0·05 mmol l(-1) to 0·2 mmol l(-1) . Interference analysis results showed the complex media (LB),the by-products (formic acid and acetic acid) of fermentation and a longer fermentation time interfere with the FRDP assay, while the mineral media (M9) and short fermentation time (<12 h) could minimize the interference.
Conclusions: The developed double-enzyme-coupled FRDP assay can be used in quick screening of succinic acid production.
Significance and impact of the study: In this study, a novel high-throughput screening method to detect succinic acid was developed. This screening method is useful to screen succinic acid-producing bacteria and can be easily adjusted to screen different strains for the production of many other metabolites.
© 2013 The Society for Applied Microbiology.