Pectinases are a big group of enzymes that break down pectic polysaccharides of plant tissues into simpler molecules like galacturonic acids. It has long been used to increase yields and clarity of fruit juices. Since pectic substances are a very complex macromolecule group, various pectinolytic enzymes are required to degrade it completely. These enzymes present differences in their cleavage m...

A comprehensive review of work pertinent to changes in the separation zone prior to abscission is presented. Since these changes are largely pectic in nature the involvement of pectic enzymes is suggested. The results obtained for the role of pectin methylesterase ( PME) in abscission arc as follows: ( 1 ) A localization of PME activity in the abscission zone of tobacco pedicels was established...

When grown in the appropriate medium, several yeast species produce pectinases able to degrade pectic substances. It is mainly exocellular endopolygalacturonases that break pectins or pectate down by hydrolysis of alpha-1,4-glycosidic linkages in a random way. Biochemical characterisation of these enzymes has shown that they have an optimal pH in the acidic region and an optimal temperature bet...