A novel Arthrobacter β-galactosidase with homology to eucaryotic β- galactosidases

Abstract

An Arthrobacter β-galactosidase has homology with the lysosomal acid β-galactosidases from humans and mice and with a Xanthomonas manihotis enzyme. Phylogenetic analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence showed an unusual pattern, with this procaryotic enzyme clustering within the animal clade. The gene encodes a subunit of 52 kDa, and the enzyme appears to be active as a dimer. The enzyme hydrolyzed substrates with either a β-1,4 or a β-1,3 linkage.