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Inhibition of β-Glucosidase and Esterase by Tannins from Betula, Salix, and Pinus Species

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Abstract

The reaction of tannin fractions isolated from the bark of Betula, Salix, and Pinus species with two enzymes, β-glucosidase and esterase, was investigated. The influence of precipitation to the hydrolytic capacity of β-glucosidase also was studied. All tannins studied precipitated β-glucosidase and esterase, and moderate differences in the precipitating capacities of the tannins were observed. Interestingly, complex formation between β-glucosidase and tannin did not markedly affect the activity of the enzyme. Therefore, complex formation during the insect/herbivore feeding does not necessarily change the defense activity of phenolic glycosides or decrease activity of digestive enzymes.

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Juntheikki, MR., Julkunen-Tiitto, R. Inhibition of β-Glucosidase and Esterase by Tannins from Betula, Salix, and Pinus Species. J Chem Ecol 26, 1151–1165 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1005427809812

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