Purification and properties of an exocellular β-glucosidase of <i>Candida molischiana</i> (Zikes) Meyer and Yarrow capable of hydrolyzing soluble cellodextrins

Abstract

The exocellular enzyme β-glucosidase of Candida molischiana was studied. This strain is able to ferment soluble cellodextrins. The enzyme was partially purified by ion-exchange chromatography and gel filtration. The molecular weight of this enzyme was 120 000; its optimum pH was between 4 and 4.5 and its optimum temperature was 60 °C. This enzyme was active against different soluble glucosides and was inhibited by p-chloromercuribenzoate, gluconolactone, and glucose. A "glucosyltransferase" activity appeared in the presence of ethanol. The biosynthesis of the enzyme was constitutive but repressed by glucose.