α-Glucosidase

α-Glucosidase

α-Glucosidase, with the CAS number 9001-42-7, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism by hydrolyzing terminal non-reducing α-D-glucose residues from oligosaccharides and polysaccharides. This enzyme is particularly significant in the digestive process, facilitating the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars.

Chemical Identity

• CAS Number: 9001-42-7
• MDL Number: MFCD00081321
• Molecular Formula: Not specified
• Molecular Weight: Not specified
• EINECS Number: Not specified

Physical and Chemical Properties

1. Appearance: Typically appears as a white to off-white powder.
2. Melting Point: Ranges from 154.3 to 155.3 °C, indicating its stability under heat.
3. Boiling Point: Not specifically provided, but it is expected to be high due to the nature of proteins.
4. Solubility: Generally soluble in water, facilitating its use in various aqueous biochemical applications.

Biological Function

α-Glucosidase (EC 3.2.1.20) catalyzes the hydrolysis of α(1→4) glycosidic bonds in carbohydrates, releasing free glucose. This enzymatic activity is essential for:

1. Digestion of Carbohydrates: It aids in breaking down starches and glycogen into glucose, which can then be utilized by the body for energy.
2. Metabolic Regulation: The enzyme plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels by controlling the rate at which glucose is released into the bloodstream.

Applications

α-Glucosidase has several important applications across various fields:

1. Pharmaceuticals:
   • Used in the treatment of diabetes as an inhibitor to slow down carbohydrate absorption, helping manage postprandial blood glucose levels.
   • Investigated for its potential role in enzyme replacement therapy for lysosomal storage disorders.
2. Food Industry:
   • Employed in food processing to break down complex carbohydrates, improving digestibility and sweetness of products.
3. Biotechnology and Research:
   • Utilized in biochemical assays and research studies focused on carbohydrate metabolism and enzyme kinetics.

Safety Information

α-Glucosidase is generally considered safe for laboratory and industrial use; however, standard safety practices should be observed:

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling the enzyme.
• Store at recommended temperatures (typically 2–8 °C) to maintain stability and activity.

Citations:

1. https://www.cdhfinechemical.com/images/product/msds/131_43275966_GLUCOSIDASE-CASNO-9001-42-7-MSDS.pdf
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CE%91-Glucosidase
3. https://www.megazyme.com/alpha-glucosidase-bacillus-stearothermophilus
4. https://www.megazyme.com/alpha-glucosidase-yeast-maltase
5. https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/IN/en/product/sigma/g5003
6. https://www.glentham.com/en/products/product/GZ1265/
7. https://www.chemicalbook.com/ChemicalProductProperty_EN_CB9402548.htm
8. https://getchem.com/products/%CE%B1-glucosidase-cas-9001-42-7/