Chitinase is an inducible enzyme in Beauveria bassiana

Sterilization of chitin by autoclaving or boiling causes release of d-glucosamine and N-acetylglucosamine from the macromolecule and these solubilized components actually function as the inducers for synthesis of chitinase. The insoluble macromolecule is not an inducer of chitinase since sterilization by dry heat or chloroform will not bring about release of the amino sugars or induction of the enzyme. Free glucosamine, N-acetylglucosamine, and chitobiose are all good inducers of chitinase. Most sustained synthesis of the enzyme occurs in an autoclaved chitin-salts medium.