This paper describes a study of the extracellular lipase synthesised by a submerged culture of Antrodia cinnamomea in two different media (modified ME and modified YM). Lipase production increased substantially upon the addition of glucose; when it comprised 8% of the modified ME and YM media, the lipase production increased remarkably from 0 to 3.35 mU/ml and from 0.59 to 6.17 mU/ml, respectively. The lipase activity decreased, however, beyond certain concentrations of glucose. The lipase synthesis in the modified YM medium was superior to that which occurred in the modified ME medium. In addition, the optimum values of pH and temperature for the crude lipase were 11.0 and 60 degrees C, respectively. The enzyme was stable at values of pH between 7.0 and 12.0 and at temperatures up to 80 degrees C. Thus, this novel lipase from A. cinnamomea is particularly alkaline-resistant and thermostable. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.