Culture of pectin methylesterase and polyphenoloxidase in Cuscuta campestris

A method for growing Cuscuta campestris aseptically in vitro was developed. Polyphenoloxidase activity in extracts of Cuscuta was partially characteri sed and ways for inhibiting it during extraction were determined. Pectin me thylesterase activity in extracts was demonstrated. The enzyme, with activi ty at pH 7.0, was purified using column chromatography on Con A-Sepharose a nd Biogel P-100. The enzyme was shown to be a glycoprotein, with a molecula r weight of about 40-45 kD, which seemed to be able to associate sometimes to what appears to be a dimer. Its possible role in host infection by Cuscu ta is discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.