Mixed-linkage glucan

Mixed-linkage glucan (MLG), sometimes incorrectly referred to as beta-glucan, is a hemicellulosic polysaccharide consisting of β-D(1-3) and β-D(1-4) linked glucosyl residues. MLG is highly prevalent within the Poales, where it has important properties in the diet. In addition, although thought to be confined to the Poales, MLG has been found to be highly prevalent in plants of the distantly related genus Equisetum.^[1][2]

Structure

 

Glucose molecule, showing carbon numbering notation and beta orientation. In mixed linkage glucan bonds form only on carbons 1, 3 and 4.

MLG is composed of β-D(1-3) and β-D(1-4)-linked glucosyl residues. Typically there are regions of 2-5 β-D(1-4)-linked residues separated by β-D(1-3)-linkages. The β-D(1-4)-linked residues form rigid regions of the structure while the β-D(1-3)-links are flexible.

Roles in the diet

MLGs exhibit the physiological properties of dietary fibres and the functional properties of viscous and gel-forming food hydrocolloids.^[3]

Functions in plants

The prevalence of MLG within the poales and Equisetum suggests a definite role in their growth. However the presence of the enzyme mixed-linkage glucan : xyloglucan endotransglucosylase within Equiseta suggest that the role of MLG in each may be different.

See also

• Lichenin

References

1. Fry, Stephen C.; Nesselrode, Bertram H. W. A.; Miller, Janice G.; Mewburn, Ben R. (2008). "Mixed-linkage (1→3,1→4)-β-d-glucan is a major hemicellulose of Equisetum (horsetail) cell walls". New Phytologist. 179 (1): 104–115. doi:10.1111/j.1469-8137.2008.02435.x. PMID 18393951.
2. Sørensen, Iben; Pettolino, Filomena A.; Wilson, Sarah M.; Doblin, Monika S.; Johansen, Bo; Bacic, Antony; Willats, William G. T. (2008). "Mixed-linkage (1→3),(1→4)-β-d-glucan is not unique to the Poales and is an abundant component of Equisetum arvense cell walls". The Plant Journal. 54 (3): 510–521. doi:10.1111/j.1365-313X.2008.03453.x. PMID 18284587.
3. Lazaridou, A.; Biliaderis, C.G. (2007). "Molecular aspects of cereal β-glucan functionality: Physical properties, technological applications and physiological effects". Journal of Cereal Science. 46 (2): 101–118. doi:10.1016/j.jcs.2007.05.003.