OBSERVATIONS ON MICROBIAL FRUCTOSANS AND FRUCTOSANASES

Abstract
A previously unreported fructosan of Acetobacter acetigenum was characterized as similar to that of Bacillus subtilis-pumilus, a 2,6-levan. A fructosan of the fungus Aspergillus sydowi was characterized as similar to inulin, a 2,1-fructosan. Fructosanases were produced that are specific for either 2,1- or 2,6-linked fructosans. The identification of the fructosans is based on (a) the specificity of the fructosanases, (b) the rate of movement of fructosan-hydrolyzate products on chromatograms, and (c) the presence of detectable amounts of glucose.