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Pullulanase, Debranching Enzyme, 9075-68-7

Pullulanase, Debranching Enzyme, 9075-68-7

PULLULANASE

Pullulanase / Debranching Enzyme / α-Dextrin Endo-1,6-α-Glucosidase
CAS Number: 9075-68-7
EC Number: 3.2.1.41 (Enzyme Commission Number)

SECTION 1: PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

Parameter Information
Product Name Pullulanase
CAS Number 9075-68-7
EC Number 3.2.1.41
Chemical Class Enzyme (debranching enzyme, hydrolase)
Systematic Name α-Dextrin Endo-1,6-α-Glucosidase
Source Microbial fermentation (Bacillus acidopullulyticusKlebsiella pneumoniae, or other microorganisms)
Appearance Light yellow to white powder or liquid enzyme preparation
Odor Slight characteristic odor
Physical State (20°C) Solid (powder) or liquid

Pullulanase is a debranching enzyme that specifically hydrolyzes the α-1,6-glycosidic bonds in starch, amylopectin, pullulan, and related polysaccharides. It is widely used in the starch processing industry to improve the yield of glucose and maltose syrups by breaking down branched starch structures. It is also used in the brewing and beverage industries for sugar profile adjustment.

SECTION 2: SYNONYMS AND OTHER NAMES

Type Name
Common Names Pullulanase, Debranching Enzyme
Systematic Name α-Dextrin Endo-1,6-α-Glucosidase
EC Number 3.2.1.41
CAS Number 9075-68-7
HS Code 3507.90

SECTION 3: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

3.1. Molecular Structure

Pullulanase is a hydrolytic enzyme that specifically cleaves α-1,6-glycosidic bonds. It is a single polypeptide chain with a molecular weight of approximately 100,000 Da (100 kDa), depending on the microbial source.

Structural Features:

        N-Terminus
            |
    [Catalytic Domain]
            |
    [Starch Binding Domain]
            |
        C-Terminus

3.2. Key Structural Features

Feature Description
Molecular Weight ~100,000 Da (100 kDa)
Structure Single polypeptide chain
Active Site Hydrolytic domain (cleaves α-1,6 bonds)
Optimal pH 4.5 – 6.0
Optimal Temperature 50 – 60°C

3.3. Reaction Mechanism

Pullulanase catalyzes the hydrolysis of α-1,6-glycosidic bonds in amylopectin, pullulan, and other branched polysaccharides, releasing linear chains.

Reaction:

Pullulan + H₂O → Maltotriose + Maltose + Glucose
(α-1,6 bonds cleaved)

General Reaction:
Amylopectin (α-1,6 bonds) + H₂O → Amylopectin (linear chains) + Oligosaccharides

SECTION 4: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Value
Appearance Light yellow to white powder or liquid
Odor Slight characteristic odor
Solubility Soluble in water
Molecular Weight ~100,000 Da (100 kDa)
Optimal pH Range 4.5 – 6.0
Effective pH Range 4.0 – 7.0
Optimal Temperature 50 – 60°C
Effective Temperature Range 30 – 70°C
Inactivation Temperature >70°C
Calcium Dependency Calcium-independent (some variants)
Moisture Content (Powder) ≤ 8%
Ash Content ≤ 2%
Heavy Metals ≤ 10 ppm

SECTION 5: ENZYMATIC ACTIVITY

Parameter Value
Activity Definition One unit (U) is defined as the amount of enzyme that liberates 1 µmol of reducing sugar (as glucose) per minute at pH 5.0 and 50°C using pullulan as substrate.
Typical Activity Varies by manufacturer (typically 100-500 U/g or U/mL)
Substrate Pullulan, amylopectin, glycogen, α-1,6-glycosidic bonds
Reaction Product Maltotriose, maltose, glucose, and linear oligosaccharides

SECTION 6: MECHANISM OF ACTION

Step Description
1 Pullulanase binds to branched regions of amylopectin, pullulan, or glycogen.
2 The enzyme recognizes and binds to α-1,6-glycosidic bonds at branch points.
3 Hydrolysis of the α-1,6-glycosidic bond occurs.
4 The branched structure is cleaved, releasing linear chains.
5 The enzyme continues to hydrolyze remaining α-1,6 bonds until the substrate is fully debranched.

SECTION 7: APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

7.1. Glucose Syrup Production (Most Important Application)

Application Function
Starch Hydrolysis Breaks down branched starch structures (amylopectin) to increase glucose yield
High-DE Syrups Improves dextrose equivalent (DE) values in glucose syrup production
Saccharification Used in combination with amyloglucosidase for complete starch conversion
Yield Improvement Increases glucose yield by 2-5% compared to using amyloglucosidase alone

7.2. Maltose Syrup Production

Application Function
High-Maltose Syrups Produces high-maltose syrups for confectionery and brewing
Sugar Profile Adjustment Controls the ratio of maltose to glucose in the syrup

7.3. Brewing and Beverage Industry

Application Function
Beer Production Sugar profile adjustment; improves fermentability
Light Beer Reduces carbohydrate content for light beer production
Low-Carbohydrate Beer Increases fermentable sugar content for low-carb beers

7.4. Sweetener Production

Application Function
High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) Used in combination with amyloglucosidase and glucose isomerase
Sugar Alcohols Used in the production of maltitol, sorbitol, and other sugar alcohols

7.5. Other Applications

Application Function
Bioethanol Production Improves starch conversion for ethanol fermentation
Animal Feed Improves digestibility of starch in animal feed
Textile Industry Desizing of starch-based sizing agents
Paper Industry Starch modification

SECTION 8: TYPICAL DOSAGE GUIDELINES

Application Recommended Dosage Conditions
Glucose Syrup Production 0.1 – 0.5 U/g starch pH 4.5-5.5, 55-60°C
Maltose Syrup Production 0.2 – 1.0 U/g starch pH 5.0-6.0, 50-55°C
Brewing (Light Beer) 0.05 – 0.2 U/g malt pH 4.5-5.5, 50-55°C
High-Fructose Corn Syrup 0.1 – 0.3 U/g starch pH 4.5-5.5, 55-60°C
Bioethanol Production 0.1 – 0.5 U/g starch pH 4.5-5.5, 50-55°C

Note: Dosage should be optimized for each specific application through trial runs.

SECTION 9: PROCESSING GUIDELINES

Parameter Recommendation
Dissolution Dissolve in water or buffer (pH 4.5-6.0) at room temperature
Optimal Temperature 50-60°C
Optimal pH 4.5-6.0
Reaction Time 2-24 hours (depending on substrate and enzyme concentration)
Inactivation Heat treatment (>70°C) or pH adjustment to inactivate the enzyme
Substrate Concentration 20-40% w/w (starch dry solids)

SECTION 10: FACTORS AFFECTING ACTIVITY

Factor Effect
Temperature Optimal at 50-60°C; activity decreases above 65°C; >70°C inactivation
pH Optimal at pH 4.5-6.0; significant activity at pH 4.0-7.0
Substrate Concentration Activity increases with substrate concentration up to saturation
Calcium Ions Most pullulanases are calcium-independent
Inhibitors Heavy metals (Cu²⁺, Hg²⁺, Pb²⁺) may inhibit activity
Competing Enzymes May be used in combination with amyloglucosidase and α-amylase

SECTION 11: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

Parameter Value
Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) > 5,000 mg/kg (very low toxicity)
Acute Dermal Toxicity Low
Acute Inhalation Toxicity May cause respiratory sensitization (dust)
Skin Irritation Mild irritant
Eye Irritation May cause mild irritation
Skin Sensitization May cause sensitization in sensitive individuals
Mutagenicity Negative (Ames test)
Carcinogenicity Not classified as a carcinogen
Reproductive Toxicity Not classified as a reproductive toxin
Allergenicity May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals (protein-based)

SECTION 12: GHS CLASSIFICATION

Hazard Class Category H-Statement
Respiratory Sensitization Category 1 H334
Skin Sensitization Category 1 H317

Signal Word: WARNING

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark), GHS08 (Health)

Hazard Statements (H-Codes):

Code Statement
H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction.
H334 May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled.

SECTION 13: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

Code Statement
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray.
P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water.
P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present.
P342+P311 If experiencing respiratory symptoms: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor.
P333+P313 If skin irritation or rash occurs: Get medical advice/attention.
P337+P313 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention.
P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.

SECTION 14: FIRST AID MEASURES

Route of Exposure Action to Be Taken
Inhalation Move to fresh air. If respiratory irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, consult a physician.
Eye Contact Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Ingestion Rinse mouth with water. Drink plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting. If large amount is swallowed, seek medical attention.

SECTION 15: FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Combustible organic powder; may burn at high temperatures.
Hazards During Fire Thermal decomposition produces toxic fumes including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxides.
Suitable Extinguishing Media Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder, alcohol-resistant foam.
Special Protective Equipment Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing.

SECTION 16: ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

Parameter Information
Personal Protection Dust mask, protective goggles, gloves, coverall.
Ventilation Increase ventilation; use local exhaust in confined spaces.
Containment Cover spilled area to prevent dust dispersion.
Cleaning Methods Collect dry using vacuum or careful sweeping. Avoid washing with water (soluble).
Environmental Precautions Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water bodies.
Waste Disposal Dispose of in accordance with local regulations.

SECTION 17: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Parameter Information
Storage Conditions Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at 4-25°C.
Container Requirements Keep tightly closed in original packaging. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
Materials to Avoid Strong oxidizers, high heat, moisture.
Shelf Life 12-24 months (in unopened original packaging under proper storage).
Stability Note Enzyme activity decreases over time; store at recommended temperatures to maintain activity.
Packaging Options Aluminum foil bags, plastic containers.

SECTION 18: PACKAGING OPTIONS

Packaging Type Quantity Material
Aluminum Foil Bag 1 kg Laminated aluminum
Plastic Container 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg HDPE / Food-grade plastic
Fiber Drum 25 kg Cardboard / Plastic

SECTION 19: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Parameter Information
UN Number Not applicable (not classified as dangerous goods)
Hazard Class Not classified as hazardous for transport
Packing Group Not applicable
ADR/RID Not regulated
IMDG Code Not regulated
IATA (Air) Not regulated
Marine Pollutant No
Transport Temperature Ambient temperature; protect from moisture.

SECTION 20: REGULATORY INFORMATION

Region / Authority Status
European Union Approved as a food enzyme (EU 1332/2008).
USA (FDA) GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for food applications.
Turkey Approved as a food processing aid.
JECFA Approved as a food enzyme.
EFSA Re-evaluated and considered safe at current usage levels.
Kosher/Halal Can be certified upon request.

SECTION 21: ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION

Parameter Information
Aquatic Toxicity Low toxicity to aquatic organisms.
Biodegradability Readily biodegradable (protein-based).
Bioaccumulation Not expected.
Waste Disposal Dispose of in accordance with local regulations. Incineration is recommended for contaminated materials.

SECTION 22: COMPARISON WITH OTHER ENZYMES

Property Pullulanase Amyloglucosidase α-Amylase Isoamylase
Bond Cleaved α-1,6 α-1,4 α-1,4 α-1,6
Substrate Pullulan, amylopectin Starch, dextrins Starch, dextrins Amylopectin
Optimal pH 4.5-6.0 4.0-5.0 5.5-6.5 3.5-5.0
Optimal Temperature 50-60°C 55-65°C 70-90°C 45-55°C
Product Linear oligosaccharides Glucose Dextrins Linear chains
Primary Use Debranching Saccharification Liquefaction Debranching

SECTION 23: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Q1: What is pullulanase used for?
A: Pullulanase is used to hydrolyze α-1,6-glycosidic bonds (branch points) in starch, amylopectin, and pullulan. It is primarily used in the production of glucose syrups, maltose syrups, high-fructose corn syrup, and in the brewing industry.

Q2: Is pullulanase safe to eat?
A: Yes. Pullulanase is considered safe (GRAS by FDA, approved by EFSA and JECFA) for food applications. The enzyme is inactivated during processing and is not present in the final product.

Q3: What is the difference between pullulanase and isoamylase?
A: Both are debranching enzymes that hydrolyze α-1,6-glycosidic bonds. Pullulanase is more active on pullulan and is typically more thermostable. Isoamylase is more active on glycogen and amylopectin, with a lower optimal pH.

Q4: Can pullulanase be used with other enzymes?
A: Yes. Pullulanase is often used in combination with amyloglucosidase (for complete saccharification) and α-amylase (for liquefaction) to achieve high glucose yields.

Q5: What is the optimal temperature and pH for pullulanase?
A: The optimal temperature is 50-60°C, and the optimal pH is 4.5-6.0. The enzyme is inactivated above 70°C.

Q6: How should pullulanase be stored?
A: Store in a cool, dry place at 4-25°C, in tightly closed original packaging. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

SECTION 24: QUICK REFERENCE TABLE

Property Value
CAS Number 9075-68-7
EC Number 3.2.1.41
Molecular Weight ~100,000 Da (100 kDa)
Appearance Light yellow to white powder or liquid
Solubility Soluble in water
Optimal pH 4.5 – 6.0
Optimal Temperature 50 – 60°C
Inactivation Temperature >70°C
Typical Activity 100-500 U/g or U/mL
Primary Uses Glucose syrup production, brewing, sweetener production
Shelf Life 12-24 months
UN Number Not applicable
GHS Signal Word WARNING

SECTION 25: CRITICAL NOTICES AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL NOTICES:

  1. Respiratory Sensitization: Pullulanase powder may cause respiratory sensitization (H334) in susceptible individuals. Use appropriate dust control measures and respiratory protection.

  2. Skin Sensitization: May cause allergic skin reactions (H317) in sensitive individuals. Use protective gloves.

  3. Enzyme Activity: Enzyme activity decreases with temperature, pH, and time. Optimize conditions for each application to achieve desired results.

  4. Heat Inactivation: The enzyme is inactivated above 70°C. This ensures that no active enzyme remains in the final product after processing.

  5. Calcium Dependency: Most microbial pullulanases are calcium-independent, simplifying process conditions compared to calcium-dependent enzymes.

  6. Dosage Optimization: Recommended dosages are starting points. Conduct trial runs to optimize the dosage for specific applications and products.

  7. Substrate Specificity: Pullulanase is highly specific for α-1,6-glycosidic bonds. The presence of branched structures is essential for activity.

  8. Storage: Store at recommended temperatures (4-25°C). Higher temperatures accelerate activity loss.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at 4-25°C. Keep containers tightly closed. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

  • Handling: Use dust mask, protective gloves, and goggles. Avoid dust formation. Ensure adequate ventilation.

  • Dissolution: Dissolve in water or buffer (pH 4.5-6.0) at room temperature. Use immediately after dissolution.

  • Application: Add the enzyme to the starch solution at the appropriate stage of processing. Ensure uniform distribution.

  • Incubation: Allow sufficient reaction time at the optimal temperature for the enzyme to act. Reaction time varies by application.

  • Inactivation: Ensure the final product is heated to >70°C or pH-adjusted to inactivate the enzyme.

  • Combination: For maximum glucose yield, combine pullulanase with amyloglucosidase during saccharification.

  • Dosage: Start with recommended dosages and optimize through trial runs. Overdosing may cause excessive hydrolysis and undesirable sugar profiles.

  • Quality Control: Monitor enzyme activity and product quality regularly. Test for residual enzyme activity if required.

  • Waste Management: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. This document does not substitute professional advice. Dosage and application conditions should be optimized through product-specific trials.

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