Abstract: | The conformation of amylose in aqueous solution has been found to be dependent on its molecular weight. When the molecular weight of amylose is outside of the so-called “dissolving gap” described by Burchard (6500<Mr<160,000) it behaves as a random coil, whereas when its molecular weight is within the “dissolving gap,” it easily aggregates forming a rigid coil which is the B-type (retrograded) amylose. The conformation of this rigid coil is suggested to be a double helix. |