Structure and enzymatic degradation of the polysaccharide secreted by Nostoc commune

Noctoc commune is a cyanobacterium living in various and extreme environments. Its ability to survive in desert, on ice or high altitude is explained by its exceptional metabolism and its capacity to resist to desiccation. N. commune cells are embedded in a gelatinous matrix made of polysaccharides which fixes water and participates in maintaining the cells in hydrated conditions. The structure of the polysaccharide of N. commune harvested in Saint Martin d'Uriage (France) and the oligosaccharides obtained after its enzymatic degradation were determined. The repeating unit of the main chain is a tetra-saccharide: [→4)-β-D-Glcp-(1 → 4)-β-D-Xylp-(1 → 4)-β-D-Glcp-(1 → 4)-α-D-Galp-(1→], branched at position 6 of a glucose residue by a β-linked pyruvated glucuronic acid residue. About 30% of the Xylp residues were branched with a Xylf residue. Comparison of this structure with the polysaccharides secreted by other Nostoc species and strains suggest a strong selection pressure on the structure in agreement with its important biological role.