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Published on: June 25, 2018
A beta-Galactosidase from Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Seeds
M Sekimata1, K Ogura, Y Tsumuraya
1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Saitama University, 255 Shimo-okubo, Urawa 338, Japan.
Plant Physiology
|June 1, 1989
Summary
A basic beta-galactosidase was purified from radish seeds. This enzyme specifically cleaves beta-1,3- and beta-1,6-linked galactose residues, aiding in the degradation of complex plant polysaccharides.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Plant Science
- Enzymology
Background:
- Beta-galactosidases (beta-Galase) play crucial roles in carbohydrate metabolism.
- Understanding plant-specific beta-Galase is important for elucidating polysaccharide breakdown pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To purify and characterize a basic beta-galactosidase from radish (Raphanus sativus L.) seeds.
- To investigate the substrate specificity and inhibitory properties of the purified enzyme.
Main Methods:
- Conventional protein purification techniques were employed.
- Enzyme activity assays were performed using various substrates and inhibitors.
- Characterization included molecular mass determination and isoelectric focusing.
Main Results:
- A basic beta-galactosidase was purified 281-fold, exhibiting electrophoretic homogeneity.
- The enzyme has a molecular mass of 45 kDa and pl values of 8.6–8.8.
- It demonstrated maximal activity at pH 4.0 and specifically hydrolyzed beta-1,3- and beta-1,6-linked galactose residues.
Conclusions:
- The purified radish seed beta-galactosidase is a distinct enzyme with specific substrate preferences.
- It can partially degrade arabinogalactan-proteins in conjunction with other enzymes, suggesting a role in plant cell wall modification.

