Enzymatic synthesis of colorimetric substrates to determine α-2,3- and α-2,6-specific neuraminidase activity

Abstract

Glycoconjugates containing either terminal α-2,3- or α-2,6-Neu5Ac-Gal disaccharides are found on cell surfaces of many animal glycans. Each linkage can be specifically recognized by lectins and enzymes such as neuraminidases. Here we describe a one-step enzymatic synthesis of two colorimetric substrates that allow for fast distinction of specific neuraminidase activity.