beta-glucosidase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the hydrolysis of terminal, non-reducing beta-D-glucose residues with release of beta-D-glucose. [EC:3.2.1.21, PMID:12594539]

Beta-glucosidase activity refers to the enzymatic hydrolysis of the glycosidic bond between a glucose molecule and another sugar molecule. This specific type of glycosidase is responsible for breaking down beta-1,4-glycosidic bonds in cellobiose and other complex carbohydrates. Beta-glucosidases are found in a wide variety of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals. They play a crucial role in the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, such as cellulose, into simpler sugars, such as glucose. This process is essential for the utilization of these carbohydrates as energy sources.

The catalytic mechanism of beta-glucosidases typically involves the following steps:
1. Binding of the substrate to the active site of the enzyme.
2. Cleavage of the glycosidic bond by a nucleophilic attack on the anomeric carbon of the glucose molecule.
3. Release of the glucose molecule from the enzyme.

The active site of beta-glucosidases often contains a catalytic glutamate or aspartate residue, which acts as a general acid catalyst, and a catalytic tyrosine or tryptophan residue, which acts as a general base catalyst. These residues are crucial for the catalytic mechanism of the enzyme.

Beta-glucosidases have a wide range of applications in various industries, including food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology. For example, they are used in the production of biofuels, sweeteners, and pharmaceuticals. They are also used in the degradation of plant biomass and the production of bio-based products.'
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Proteins (3)

Compounds (14)