The celA Gene, Encoding a Glycosyl Hydrolase Family 3 β-Glucosidase in Azospirillum irakense, Is Required for Optimal Growth on Cellobiosides

Abstract

The CelA β-glucosidase of Azospirillum irakense, belonging to glycosyl hydrolase family 3 (GHF3), preferentially hydrolyzes cellobiose and releases glucose units from the C3, C4, and C5 oligosaccharides. The growth of a ΔcelA mutant on these cellobiosides was affected. In A. irakense, the GHF3 β-glucosidases appear to be functional alternatives for the GHF1 β-glucosidases in the assimilation of β-glucosides by other bacteria.