Studies on Dextran

Part 3. Periodate Oxidation of Dextran

Abstract

Periodate oxidation method was applied to the oxidation of dextrans from various strains of Leuconostoc mesenteroides and unidentified new strains of dextran-forming bacteria.
The ratios of 1, 4- and 1, 6-glucosidic linkages in these dextrans were calculated by measuring the amount of formic acid produced and it was found that they were varied from 1 to 5 to 1 to 16.
The reaction velocity was about the same in all cases, and no over-oxidation was observed. Oxidation product was isolated, and its properties were described. The stability of formic acid produced was discussed and confirmed.