Gal beta(1-3)GlcNAc beta(1-3)Gal beta(1-4)Glc-beta-pNP (CAS 148705-09-3)

Gal beta(1-3)GlcNAc beta(1-3)Gal beta(1-4)Glc-beta-pNP is a synthetic tetrasaccharide that is used as a chromogenic substrate for investigating glycosidase enzyme activity. The chemical structure mimics naturally occurring carbohydrate chains, particularly those found in glycoproteins and glycolipids. The terminal p-nitrophenyl (pNP) group allows for colorimetric detection due to its chromogenic properties when hydrolyzed, which is useful in identifying and characterizing glycosidase activities. This tetrasaccharide model is employed in enzymology research, especially in exploring the activity and specificity of beta-galactosidases, beta-N-acetylglucosaminidases, and other glycosidases that act on branched oligosaccharides. It aids in understanding the substrate preference of these enzymes, providing insights into the glycosylation processes in glycobiology. Additionally, it has been useful for kinetic studies to quantify enzymatic hydrolysis rates. Researchers can utilize this tetrasaccharide to evaluate glycosidase activities in the context of complex glycans, identify potential enzymatic inhibitors, or even use it in screening assays for enzyme specificity. Overall, Gal beta(1-3)GlcNAc beta(1-3)Gal beta(1-4)Glc-beta-pNP serves as a versatile substrate that advances the study of glycosidases and their roles in carbohydrate metabolism.