Synthesis of galacto-oligosaccharides in AOT/isooctane reverse micelles by β-galactosidase

Synthesis of galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) from lactose by beta -galactosidase was investigated in ACT/isooctane reverse micelles where the enzyme was fairly stable. GOS yield increased with initial lactose concentration in both reverse micelles and aqueous system. Transgalactosylation reaction of the enzyme was strongly dependent on the molar ratio of water to surfactant (w(0)) of reverse micelles. At pH 7.0 and 45 degreesC, a maximum GOS concentration from 45% (w/v) lactose solution was 51.2% (w/w) in the reverse micelles with w(0) = 15, while a maximum of 31% in aqueous media. Effects of solvents on GOS formation were also examined. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.