Eva Kofler
Bachelor Thesis 2024/25
Investigating Enzymatic Potential In Anaerobic
Gut Fungi: Protocol Establishment For
Characterization Of Xylanase Activity In
Selected Fungal Strains
This bachelor’s thesis investigated the enzymatic potential of
four anaerobic gut fungi for breaking down plant biomass,
with a focus the optimization of the DNS-assay for measuring
the xylanase activity. The adapted assay enabled robust,
comparative assessment of xylanase activity across strains
and showed clear differences in enzyme activity between the
strains. These findings highlight strain-specific differences
relevant for biotechnological applications.
Master Thesis 2025/26
Description of novel anaerobic fungal strains of
the phylum Neocallimastigomycota and
qualitative assessment of the accompanying
microbiota within their hosts
This Master’s thesis focuses on the characterization of novel
anaerobic gut fungal strain, using a combination of
microbiological and molecular methods. The strain’s growth
on different carbon sources is investigated both through gas
pressure measurement and microscopy. Furthermore, the
microbiome of its host-animal will be analyzed, contributing
to a better understanding of anaerobic gut fungal diversity
and their ecology.