Culture of pectin methylesterase and polyphenoloxidase in Cuscuta campestris

A method for growing Cuscuta campestris aseptically in vitro was developed. Polyphenoloxidase activity in extracts of Cuscuta was partially characterised and ways for inhibiting it during extraction were determined. Pectin methylesterase activity in extracts was demonstrated. The enzyme, with activity at pH 7.0, was purified using column chromatography on Con A-Sepharose and Biogel P-100. The enzyme was shown to be a glycoprotein, with a molecular weight of about 40-45 kD, which seemed to be able to associate sometimes to what appears to be a dimer. Its possible role in host infection by Cuscuta is discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.