Cellulase
Cellulase (EC 3.2.1.4,
endo-1,4-beta-D-glucanase,
beta-1,4-glucanase,
beta-1,4-endoglucan hydrolase,
celluase A,
cellulosin AP,
endoglucanase D,
alkali cellulase,
cellulase A 3,
celludextrinase,
9.5 cellulase,
avicelase,
pancellase SS,
1,4-(1,3,
1,4)-beta-D-glucan 4-glucanohydrolase) refers to a suite of enzymes produced chiefly by fungi, bacteria, and protozoans that catalyze
cellulolysis (i.e. the hydrolysis of cellulose). However, there are also cellulases produced by a few other types of organisms, such as some termites and the microbial intestinal symbionts of other termites. Several different kinds of cellulases are known, which differ structurally and mechanistically.
Reaction: Hydrolysis of 1,4-beta-D-glycosidic linkages in cellulose, lichenin and cereal beta-D-glucans.
Other names for 'endoglucanases' are: endo-1,4-beta-glucanase, carboxymethyl cellulase (CMCase), endo-1,4-beta-D-glucanase, beta-1,4-glucanase, beta-1,4-endoglucan hydrolase, and celludextrinase. The other types of cellulases are called exocellulases.