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[Structural study of Eremurus glucomannans by electron microscopic and roentgenographic methods]
Prikladnaia Biokhimiia I Mikrobiologiia
|January 1, 1982
Summary
Glucomannans from Eremurus species exhibit polymorphism, forming either lamellar or fibrillar structures. Acetylation and polymerization degree influence these supramolecular forms and their properties.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biochemistry
- Polymer Science
- Structural Biology
Context:
- Glucomannans are polysaccharides found in plants, playing roles in cell wall structure and storage.
- Understanding the structural variations of glucomannans is crucial for elucidating their biological functions.
- The Eremurus genus provides a model system for studying polysaccharide polymorphism.
Purpose:
- To investigate the polymorphic structures of glucomannans from four Eremurus species.
- To determine the factors influencing the formation of different supramolecular forms.
- To discuss the impact of supramolecular structure on glucomannan properties and biological activity.
Summary:
- Electron microscopy and roentgenography revealed glucomannans from Eremurus species are polymorphic.
- Deacetylated glucomannans form highly crystalline lamellar structures.
- Partially acetylated glucomannans yield poorly ordered fibrillar structures with specific chain spacing (4.4 Å).
- Factors like acetyl substitution and polymerization degree dictate supramolecular form.
Impact:
- Elucidates the structural basis for glucomannan diversity in plants.
- Provides insights into how polysaccharide structure influences material properties.
- Informs potential applications of glucomannans in biomaterials and biotechnology.