The celA gene, encoding a glycosyl hydrolase family 3 beta-glucosidase in Azospirillum irakense, is required for optimal growth on cellobiosides

The CeIA beta -glucosidase of Azospirillum irakense, belonging to glycosyl hydrolase family 3 (GHF3), preferentially hydrolyzes cellobiose and release s glucose units from the C-3, C-4, and C-5 oligosaccharides, The growth of a Delta celA mutant on these cellobiosides was affected. In A. irakense, th e GHF3 beta -glucosidases appear to be functional alternatives for the GHF1 beta -glucosidases in the assimilation of beta -glucosides by other bacter ia.