Abstract :
The enzyme lacZ beta-galactosidase from Escherichia coli is subjected to hyperpolarized substrate, and previously unknown reaction intermediates are observed, including a 1,1-linked disaccharide. The enzyme is known for making 1,6-transglycosylation, producing products like allolactose, which are also substrates. The findings suggest that hydrolysis and transglycosylation might be more complex than previously described.