Detection of sialidase activity in Oerskovia (Cellulomonas) turbata.

The enzyme N-acylneuraminate glycohydrolase, E.C. 3.2.1.18 (sialidase or neuraminidase) was detected in all five strains of Oerskovia (Cellulomonas) turbata and in a further strain isolated from clinical material. The detection of sialidase was performed by different methods, i.e. colorimetric determination of liberated chromogen, immunoelectrophoresis and paper chromatography. The Oerskovia turbata sialidase is able to cleave different linkages between N-acylneuraminic acid and the carbohydrate chains of oligosaccharides or polysaccharides and of glycoproteins, i.e. the 2-->3, 2-->6, and 2-->8 linkages. Finally, the ecologic and pathogenic role of neuraminidase is discussed.