Characteristics of Cyclodextrin Production Using Cyclodextrin Glucanotransferases from Various Groups of Microorganisms

Cyclodextrin glucanotransferases (CGTases; EC 2.4.1.19) from newly isolated mesophilic, thermophilic, alkalophilic, and halophilic bacilli, as well as from thermoactinomycetes, were purified to homogeneity, and some of their physicochemical and biochemical characteristics (cyclizing, disproportionating, and hydrolytic activities) were studied. Cyclodextrin (CD) production in the presence and absence of compounds favoring formation of complexes had certain specific features. We were able to demonstrate that CGTases of mesophilic and thermophilic strains form mixtures of -, -, and -CDs, whereas the enzymes from halophilic and alkalophilic microorganisms preferentially catalyze the formation of -CD.