Transglycosylation reactions catalysed by two beta-mannanases.

By using [3H]mannobiose as a labelled acceptor, it was possible to demonstrate transfer reactions catalysed by two beta-mannanases, with mannotetraose and mannopentaose as substrates. The enzyme from Streptomyces transfers one mannose unit from the oligosaccharides, whereas the enzyme from fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds is able to transfer oligomannose residues.