The structural analysis of a levan produced by Streptococcus salivarius SS2

The structure of a water-soluble levan produced by Streptococcus salivarius SS2 has been determined by means of various chemical and instrumental methods. Methylation and periodate oxidation studies demonstrate that the levan is comprised of d -fructofuranosyl backbone residues linked β-(2→6) (about 70%) with β-(2→1) branches (about 30%). 13 C-N.m.r. spectral analysis of the polymer is consistent with the structure determined by chemical means.