Celobiose

Celobiose is a disaccharide consisting of two glucose molecules linked by a β(1→4) glycosidic bond. It is a cellulose degradation intermediate formed during the hydrolysis of cellulose by enzymes such as cellulases. Due to its structure, celobiose is structurally similar to cellobiose, which is another disaccharide with the same linkage.

In nature, celobiose occurs as an intermediate in the breakdown of plant cell walls, facilitating the conversion of complex polysaccharides into simpler sugars that can be absorbed by microorganisms or utilized in biofuel production. Its presence is often associated with microbial cellulose degradation processes.

Chemically, celobiose has the molecular formula C12H22O11. It possesses a reducing end, capable of acting as a reducing sugar, which makes it reactive in various chemical tests such as the Benedict's or Fehling's test. The disaccharide is typically obtained through enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose and can be purified for research or industrial use.

In industrial applications, celobiose is of interest in the production of biofuels and biochemicals, due to its position as an intermediate in biomass conversion. Its hydrolysis to glucose can be facilitated through specific enzymes, enabling pathways for renewable energy and bioproduct synthesis.

Research into celobiose also explores its potential as a prebiotic or functional food ingredient, owing to its fermentability by certain gut bacteria. Overall, celobiose plays a significant role in the bioconversion of cellulose and related biotechnological processes.