α-galactosidase (α-GAL, EC 3.2.1.22) is an enzyme found broadly in animals, plants, microorganisms and
cultured cells. α-GAL catalyze the hydrolysis of α-galactosyl bonds specifically, and mainly participating
in the degradation of galactosides such as raffinose, stachyose, melibiose, and galactomannan. α-GAL is
crucial for the germination of plant seeds. During the initial stage of seed germination, the D-galactose
produced by its catalysis is rapidly transformed and consumed by the glycolytic pathway, which provides
the initial source of energy for seed germination. In the later stage, it mainly participates in cell wall
storage Polysaccharide hydrolysis.
α-GAL can catalyze the p-nitrophenyl-α-pyran galactoside to p-nitrophenol. The product has characteristic
of absorption at 400 nm. In this kit, the α-GAL activity is quantified by measuring the increase in the color
development at 400 nm.
Reagents and Equipment Required but Not Provided.
Centrifuge, water-bath, transferpettor, spectrophotometer, 1 mL glass cuvette, ice, mortar/homogenizer and
distilled water.
