Prediction of the structure of a novel amylopectin-based Cd-associated molecule in the stem of common reed grown in the presence of Cd.

We previously found a novel Cd-associated molecule with an apparent molecular weight of 10-50 kDa in common reeds grown in the presence of Cd. The partial structure of this molecule was predicted by enzymatic digestion to release Cd from a trace amount that had been partially purified from the cell sap. The major component was branched α-glucan, whereas a peptide, β-1,4 glucan, and mannose were found as minor components. Uronic acids appeared to provide functional groups that bind Cd.