Mycolaminarans: storage (1→3)-β-D-glucans from the cytoplasm of the fungus phytophthora palmivora

Abstract

Laminaran-like polysaccharides were isolated from zoospores and mycelium of Phytophthora palmivora. These glucans, which we have termed mycolaminarans, are readily soluble in cold water, appear highly homogeneous by gel filtration, and contain exclusively D-glucose residues. Methylation analyses and enzymic digestions revealed that mycolaminarans are linear chains of (1→3)-linked β-D-glucose residues, with one or two branches joined by (1→6)-β-D linkages. The zoospore mycolaminaran has one branching residue and d.p. 29. The mycelial mycolaminaran has two branching residues and d.p. 36. The possibility is considered that mycolaminarans may be distinctive storage-polysaccharides of the oomycetous fungi. © 1974.