A rapid method for the separation and analysis of carrageenan oligosaccharides released by iota- and kappa-carrageenase

Based on the improved performances in speed of chromatographic separation o n Superdex-type materials (Pharmacia) compared to conventional media such a s Sephadex and Bio Gel-type, a rapid size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) me thod was developed for the separation and analysis of carrageenan oligosacc harides. It was used to evaluate the elution profiles of hydrolysates produ ced by carrageenases specific for kappa- and iota-carrageenans. Oligosaccha ride peaks ranging from di- to dodeca-saccharides were obtained in about 20 min on an analytical scale, whereas preparative runs were completed in a f ew hours. The method may also be used to monitor polysaccharide degradation . (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.