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Send EmailGlucanase, Beta Glucanase, Licheninase, 62213-14-3
Glucanase is a hydrolytic enzyme (glycosidase) that catalyzes the breakdown of β-glucans, which are polysaccharides composed of glucose units linked by β-glycosidic bonds. It is widely used in the brewing industry to facilitate filtration by degrading β-glucans, reduce viscosity, and improve clarity. Additionally, it is employed in the animal feed industry to enhance fiber digestibility, in bioethanol production for lignocellulosic biomass breakdown, and in various food processing applications.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Glucanase |
| Other Names | β-Glucanase, Endo-β-glucanase, Licheninase |
| CAS Number | 62213-14-3 |
| EC Numbers | 3.2.1.6 (Endo-β-1,3-glucanase) / 3.2.1.73 (Endo-β-1,4-glucanase) |
| Enzyme Class | Hydrolase (Glycosidase) |
| Source | Typically derived from barley, cereals, or fungi (Aspergillus spp., Trichoderma spp., Penicillium spp.) |
| Appearance | Light brown to yellowish powder or liquid enzyme preparation |
| Odor | Slight characteristic odor |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (powder) or liquid |
| Type | Name |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Glucanase, β-Glucanase, Endo-β-glucanase |
| Systematic Names | 1,3-β-D-Glucan glucanohydrolase (EC 3.2.1.6) / 1,4-β-D-Glucan glucanohydrolase (EC 3.2.1.73) |
| Other Synonyms | Licheninase, Laminarinase (partial), Cereal β-glucanase |
| CAS Number | 62213-14-3 |
| EC Numbers | 3.2.1.6 / 3.2.1.73 |
| HS Code | 3507.90 |
Glucanase is a single polypeptide chain protein with a molecular weight typically ranging from 20-60 kDa depending on the source and specific isoenzyme. It belongs to the glycoside hydrolase (GH) family and contains a catalytic domain with a characteristic (β/α)₈ barrel structure or a β-jelly roll fold, depending on the GH family.
Structural Features:
Glucanase
|
Catalytic Domain
|
(β/α)₈ Barrel / β-Jelly Roll
|
Substrate Binding Site
|
β-1,3 / β-1,4 Glycosidic Bonds
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Enzyme Type | Hydrolase (Glycosidase) |
| Catalytic Mechanism | Acid/base catalytic mechanism (retaining or inverting) |
| Molecular Weight | 20-60 kDa (varies by source and isoenzyme) |
| Substrate | β-Glucans (β-1,3-glucan, β-1,4-glucan, mixed-linkage glucans) |
| Optimal pH | 4.0 – 6.5 (varies by source and isoenzyme) |
| Optimal Temperature | 30 – 60°C |
Glucanase hydrolyzes the β-1,3 and/or β-1,4 glycosidic bonds in β-glucan polymers, releasing smaller oligosaccharides and glucose.
General Reaction:
β-Glucan (β-1,3 / β-1,4 bonds) + H₂O → Oligosaccharides (cellodextrins, laminarioligosaccharides) + Glucose
| Enzyme Type | EC Number | Substrate | Primary Product | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Endo-β-1,3-Glucanase | 3.2.1.6 | β-1,3-Glucan (Laminarin, callose) | Laminarioligosaccharides, glucose | Fungi, bacteria, plants |
| Endo-β-1,4-Glucanase | 3.2.1.73 | β-1,4-Glucan (cellulose, cereal β-glucan) | Cellodextrins, glucose | Fungi, bacteria, plants |
| Endo-β-1,3-1,4-Glucanase | 3.2.1.4 (partial) | Mixed-linkage β-glucan (cereal β-glucan) | Oligosaccharides | Barley, cereals |
| Exo-β-1,3-Glucanase | 3.2.1.58 | β-1,3-Glucan | Glucose | Fungi, plants |
Important Note: The most industrially important glucanases are those that hydrolyze mixed-linkage β-1,3/β-1,4-glucans found in barley and other cereals. These are often referred to as licheninases or cereal β-glucanases.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Light brown to yellowish powder or liquid |
| Odor | Slight characteristic odor |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Optimal pH Range | 4.0 – 6.5 (varies by source and isoenzyme) |
| Effective pH Range | 3.5 – 7.5 |
| Optimal Temperature | 30 – 60°C (varies by source and isoenzyme) |
| Effective Temperature Range | 20 – 70°C |
| Inactivation Temperature | >65°C (varies by source and formulation) |
| Isoelectric Point (pI) | 4.0 – 8.0 (varies by source) |
| Stability | More stable at acidic to neutral pH and low temperatures |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Activity Definition | One unit (U) is defined as the amount of enzyme that liberates 1 µmol of reducing sugar (as glucose equivalent) per minute at pH 5.0 and 40°C using barley β-glucan as substrate. |
| Typical Activity | Varies by manufacturer (typically 1,000 – 100,000 U/g or U/mL) |
| Substrate | β-Glucans (barley β-glucan, lichenan, laminarin, carboxymethyl cellulose) |
| Reaction Products | Glucose, cellodextrins, laminarioligosaccharides, and other oligosaccharides |
| Activators | Ca²⁺ (some enzymes), Mg²⁺ (some enzymes) |
| Inhibitors | EDTA, heavy metals (Cu²⁺, Hg²⁺, Ag⁺), substrate analogs |
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Glucanase is added during the mashing process or fermentation stage. |
| 2 | The enzyme acts on β-glucans present in barley and other cereals. |
| 3 | β-Glucans are hydrolyzed to smaller oligosaccharides and glucose. |
| 4 | Viscosity of the wort is significantly reduced. |
| 5 | Filtration rate is improved due to reduced β-glucan content. |
| 6 | Extract yield is increased. |
| 7 | Clarity of the final beer is improved. |
| 8 | Hazy (chill haze) formation is reduced, extending shelf life. |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Wort Viscosity Reduction | Breaks down β-glucans, reducing wort viscosity and improving filtration |
| Filtration Improvement | Prevents β-glucan gel formation, facilitating faster lautering and filtration |
| Extract Yield Increase | Releases fermentable sugars by degrading β-glucan cell wall components |
| Clarity Improvement | Reduces haze formation in beer |
| Stability Enhancement | Prevents β-glucan precipitation during storage (chill haze prevention) |
| Mashing Aid | Used to supplement endogenous malt β-glucanase activity |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Poultry Feed | Breaks down β-glucans in barley, oats, and wheat; improves nutrient digestibility |
| Swine Feed | Reduces viscosity of intestinal contents; improves feed conversion ratio |
| Aquaculture Feed | Improves digestibility of plant-based feed ingredients |
| Ruminant Feed | Enhances fiber digestibility in the rumen |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Lignocellulosic Biomass | Hydrolyzes β-glucans to fermentable sugars for ethanol production |
| Pretreatment | Used in combination with cellulase for complete biomass conversion |
| Starch-Based Ethanol | Breaks down β-glucans in corn mash, reducing viscosity and improving process flow |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Baking | Improves dough handling and bread volume (breakdown of cereal β-glucans) |
| Fruit Juice Processing | Reduces viscosity and improves juice clarity |
| Functional Foods | Production of β-glucan-derived oligosaccharides (prebiotic fibers) |
| Sauce and Dressing Production | Viscosity reduction |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Molecular Biology | Protoplast preparation (plant cell wall digestion) |
| Polysaccharide Analysis | Structural analysis of β-glucans |
| Bioactive Compound Production | Production of β-glucan oligosaccharides with biological activity |
| Application | Recommended Dosage | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Brewing (Mashing) | 0.01 – 0.1% of grain weight | 45-65°C, pH 5.0-5.5, 30-60 minutes |
| Brewing (Fermentation) | 0.005 – 0.05% of wort volume | 20-30°C, pH 4.0-5.0 |
| Animal Feed | 0.01 – 0.1% of feed weight | Added to feed during processing |
| Bioethanol | 0.01 – 0.1% of biomass | 40-55°C, pH 4.5-5.5 |
| Baking | 0.001 – 0.01% on flour weight | Add during mixing; 20-30°C |
| Juice Processing | 0.005 – 0.02% on juice volume | 40-50°C, pH 4.0-5.5 |
Note: Dosage should be optimized for each specific application through trial runs.
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Addition Method | Add to mash water during mashing or to wort during fermentation |
| Mashing Temperature | 45-65°C (optimum activity temperature range) |
| Mashing Time | 30-60 minutes (mashing stage) |
| Fermentation Temperature | 20-30°C (fermentation stage) |
| pH Range | 5.0-5.5 (mashing) / 4.0-5.0 (fermentation) |
| Inactivation | Inactivated during wort boiling (>80°C) or pasteurization |
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Optimal at 30-60°C; activity decreases above 65°C; >70°C inactivation |
| pH | Optimal at pH 4.0-6.5; significant activity at pH 3.5-7.5 |
| Substrate Concentration | Activity increases with substrate concentration |
| Inhibitors | Heavy metals (Cu²⁺, Hg²⁺, Ag⁺), EDTA, substrate analogs |
| Activators | Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ (some enzymes) |
| Water Activity | Activity requires sufficient water |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) | > 5,000 mg/kg (very low toxicity) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity | Low |
| Acute Inhalation Toxicity | Powder form may cause respiratory sensitization |
| Skin Irritation | Mild irritant |
| Eye Irritation | May cause mild irritation |
| Skin Sensitization | May cause sensitization in sensitive individuals (protein-based) |
| 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) |
| Hazard Class | Category | H-Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Respiratory Sensitization | Category 1 | H334 |
| Skin Sensitization | Category 1 | H317 |
| Water Hazard (WGK Germany) | 3 (severe hazard to water) | - |
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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store at -20°C (long-term) or +4°C (short-term) in a cool, dry environment. |
| Short-Term Storage | Several days at +4°C (in solution) |
| Long-Term Storage | -20°C recommended (months of stability in powder form) |
| 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, vacuum packaging. |
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Foil Bag | 1 kg | Laminated aluminum (nitrogen atmosphere) |
| Plastic Container | 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg | HDPE / Food-grade plastic |
| Fiber Drum | 25 kg | Cardboard / Plastic |
| 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 | Cold chain or ambient (depending on product form); protect from moisture. |
| 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 (Turkish Food Codex). |
| EFSA | Re-evaluated and considered safe at current usage levels. |
| Kosher/Halal | Can be certified upon request (depending on source). |
| WGK Germany | 3 (severe hazard to water) |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Aquatic Toxicity | Low toxicity to aquatic organisms. |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable (protein-based). |
| Bioaccumulation | Not expected. |
| Water Hazard Class (WGK Germany) | 3 (severe hazard to water). |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose of in accordance with local regulations. Incineration is recommended for contaminated materials. |
| CAS Number | Enzyme | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 62213-14-3 | Glucanase (General) | This CAS number is commonly used for the general glucanase enzyme complex. |
| 62213-14-3 | β-Glucanase | Applicable for both endo-β-1,3-glucanase and endo-β-1,4-glucanase activities. |
Important Note: Glucanase is a complex enzyme that may contain both β-1,3-glucanase and β-1,4-glucanase activities. Depending on the manufacturer and the specific product, the EC number may vary. Always verify the exact specification on the supplier's Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
| Property | Glucanase | Cellulase | Hemicellulase | Amylase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enzyme Class | Hydrolase | Hydrolase | Hydrolase | Hydrolase |
| Substrate | β-Glucan | Cellulose | Hemicellulose | Starch |
| Bond Cleaved | β-1,3 / β-1,4 glycosidic | β-1,4 glycosidic | β-1,4 glycosidic | α-1,4 glycosidic |
| Optimal pH | 4.0-6.5 | 4.5-6.0 | 4.5-6.0 | 5.5-7.0 |
| Optimal Temperature | 30-60°C | 40-60°C | 40-55°C | 50-70°C |
| Primary Application | Brewing, feed | Biofuel, juice | Baking, juice, paper | Baking, brewing, starch |
Q1: What is glucanase used for?
A: Glucanase is used to break down β-glucans in barley and other cereals. Its primary application is in the brewing industry to reduce wort viscosity, improve filtration, and enhance beer clarity. It is also used in animal feed, bioethanol production, and food processing.
Q2: What is the difference between β-1,3-glucanase and β-1,4-glucanase?
A: β-1,3-Glucanase (EC 3.2.1.6) hydrolyzes β-1,3-glycosidic bonds found in laminarin and callose. β-1,4-Glucanase (EC 3.2.1.73) hydrolyzes β-1,4-glycosidic bonds found in cellulose and cereal β-glucans. The most industrially important enzymes hydrolyze mixed-linkage β-1,3/β-1,4-glucans.
Q3: Is glucanase safe?
A: Yes. Glucanase is considered safe (GRAS by FDA, approved by EFSA) for food applications. However, the powder form may cause respiratory or skin sensitization in sensitive individuals.
Q4: How should glucanase be stored?
A: For long-term storage, store at -20°C; for short-term storage, store at +4°C. Keep in a cool, dry, light-protected environment in tightly closed original packaging.
Q5: What is the optimal pH and temperature for glucanase?
A: The optimal pH is 4.0-6.5 and the optimal temperature is 30-60°C, depending on the source and isoenzyme. The enzyme is inactivated above 65-70°C.
Q6: Can glucanase be used in gluten-free brewing?
A: Yes. Glucanase can be used in gluten-free brewing to degrade β-glucans from gluten-free grains (sorghum, rice, millet), reducing viscosity and improving filtration.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 62213-14-3 |
| EC Numbers | 3.2.1.6 / 3.2.1.73 |
| Enzyme Class | Hydrolase (Glycosidase) |
| Appearance | Light brown to yellowish powder or liquid |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Optimal pH | 4.0 – 6.5 |
| Optimal Temperature | 30 – 60°C |
| Inactivation Temperature | >65°C |
| Substrate | β-Glucans (barley β-glucan, lichenan, laminarin) |
| Primary Uses | Brewing, animal feed, bioethanol, food processing |
| Shelf Life | 12-24 months (under proper storage) |
| UN Number | Not applicable |
| GHS Signal Word | WARNING |
| WGK Germany | 3 (severe hazard to water) |
CAS Number Confirmation: Glucanase CAS number is 62213-14-3. Verify the exact CAS number and EC number on the supplier's SDS.
Respiratory Sensitization: Glucanase powder may cause respiratory sensitization (H334) in susceptible individuals. Use appropriate dust control measures and respiratory protection.
Skin Sensitization: May cause allergic skin reactions (H317) in sensitive individuals. Use protective gloves.
Temperature Sensitivity: Glucanase is heat-sensitive. Activity decreases above 65°C and inactivation occurs above 70°C. Pay attention to processing temperatures.
Enzyme Activity: Enzyme activity depends on pH, temperature, and substrate concentration. Optimize conditions for each application.
Dosage Optimization: Recommended dosages are starting points. Conduct trial runs to optimize the dosage for specific applications and products.
Multiple Activities: Glucanase may contain both endo-β-1,3-glucanase and endo-β-1,4-glucanase activities. Composition may vary by manufacturer and grade.
Substrate Specificity: Effectiveness depends on the β-glucan content of the substrate (barley, wheat, oats, etc.).
Water Hazard: Glucanase is classified as WGK 3 (severe hazard to water) in Germany. Prevent release into the environment.
Storage: Store at -20°C (long-term) or +4°C (short-term). Keep powder form dry. Store in tightly closed original packaging. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
Handling: Use dust mask, protective gloves, and goggles. Avoid dust formation. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Brewing Application: Add during mashing at 45-65°C, pH 5.0-5.5. For fermentation-stage addition, use 20-30°C, pH 4.0-5.0. Allow sufficient reaction time.
Animal Feed Application: Add during feed processing. Ensure uniform distribution in the feed.
Dosage: Start with recommended dosages and optimize through trial runs. Overdosing may cause excessive degradation and undesired effects.
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. Do not release into water bodies.
Environmental Protection: Due to WGK 3 classification, prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water bodies.
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. The CAS number for glucanase is 62213-14-3; verify the exact EC number and specifications on the supplier's SDS.