Novel substrates for the automated and manual assay of endo-1,4-β-xylanase.

endo-1,4-β-Xylanase (EC 3.2.1.

Novel substrates for the measurement of endo-1,4-β-glucanase (endo-cellulase).

A specific and sensitive substrate for the assay of endo-1,4-β-glucanase (cellulase) has been prepared. The substrate mixture comprises benzylidene end-blocked 2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl-β-cellotrioside (BzCNPG3) in the presence of thermostable β-glucosidase. Hydrolysis by exo-acting enzymes such as β-glucosidase and exo-β-glucanase is prevented by the presence of the benzylidene group on the non-reducing end d-glucosyl residue.