Kinetic properties of individual components of Penicillium verruculosum cellulase complex

Kinetic constants k(cat) and k(cat)/K-m of the hydrolysis of soluble and insoluble celluloses by individual components of Penicillium verruculosum cellulase complex have been determined. The optimal pH and temperature for the action of these enzymes were determined and their thermal stabilities were investigated. Properties of the individual enzymes of the Pen. verruculosum cellulase complex and their abilities to enhance the efficiency of the other enzymes of the complex (synergism) were compared. This revealed the most essential components of the complex for the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose: cellobiohydrolase II, endoglucanase I, endoglucanase IV, and endoglucanase V. The components of the Pen. verruculosum cellulase complex are shown to have high catalytic activity. The synergism of the action of endoglucanase IV and cellobiohydrolase II was found to be stronger than that for the components of the Trichoderma cellulase complex.