Studies on Dextran-degrading Enzymes. Solubilization of the Surface-bound Dextranase of Cytophaga johnsonii by Proteolytic Enzymes, Snake Venoms and Detergents

SUMMARY: The effect of various solubilizing agents on the release of the dextranase from whole Cytophaga bacteria or washed envelopes is described. Among the proteolytic enzymes tested, only α-chymotrypsin solubilized the dextranase very efficiently with retained enzymic activity even after prolonged exposure. Among the snake venoms tested, that of Hemachatus haemachates showed the highest selectivity and efficiency. Non-ionic detergents with hydrophilic—lipophilic balance values of about 13 to 15 also effectively and selectively solubilized the membrane-bound enzyme. Organic solvents, urea, guanidine hydrochloride, glycine, chaotropic ions, pH variations and mechanical disruption (including osmotic shock) were ineffective.