This study investigated collagenolytic activity in Achromobacter iophagus, a bacterium isolated from cured hides. The researchers demonstrated that this aerobic bacterium rapidly degrades collagen under various environmental conditions. They systematically examined how temperature, pH, sodium chloride concentration, and collagen concentration affect the rate and lag period of collagen breakdown. The bacterium showed collagenolytic activity across broad parameter ranges: temperatures from 15°C to 35°C, pH 6.4 to 8.8, and salt concentrations between 0.85% to 10% NaCl, with optimal conditions at 30-35°C, pH 7.2-8.0, and 2.34% NaCl. Activity increased proportionally with collagen concentration. This work is notable as the first report of halotolerant collagenase activity in hide bacteria, suggesting these organisms could cause significant collagen degradation in poorly cured hides or during extended curing periods. The findings provide important insights for the leather and hide industry regarding bacterial spoilage mechanisms.

Key findings

• Achromobacter iophagus performs rapid aerobic collagen degradation, with optimal activity at 30-35°C, pH 7.2-8.0, and 2.34% NaCl
• This is the first reported halotolerant collagenase in hide bacteria, remaining active across 0.85-10% NaCl concentrations
• Collagenolytic activity occurs across broad environmental ranges (15-35°C, pH 6.4-8.8), indicating the bacterium could cause hide decay under diverse storage conditions
• Activity increases proportionally with collagen concentration and exhibits shorter lag periods under optimal conditions