Synthesis of β-1,3-glucan microfibrils by a cell-free extract from Phytophthora cinnamomi

Microfibrils of β-1,3-glucan were assembled in vitro by a cell-free extract of Phytophthora cinnamomi which contained high levels of β-1,3-glucan synthetase. These levels were attained under growth conditions that repressed endogenous protease formation. The microfibrils were made entirely of β-1,3-linked residues and were thus different from native microfibrils.