The biosynthesis of ethyl-beta-glucoside in extracts of pea seedlings.

An enzyme, which lacks cellobiase activity, responsible for the synthesis of ethyl-beta-glucoside has been found in the extracts of pea hooks (1-centimeter length of the apical portion of epicotyl) and has been partially purified by ammonium sulfate fractionation. The enzyme can transfer the glucosyl moiety from a group of phenolic beta-glucosides to ethanol. A specific beta-glucosyl donor, isosuccinimide beta-glucoside, isolated from the extracts of pea seedlings shows the highest activity. The characteristics of the enzyme which synthesizes ethyl-beta-glucoside and the glucosyl donor, isosuccinimide beta-glucoside, have been studied. The significance of this system (enzyme and isosuccinimide beta-glucoside) has been discussed.