Plant cells and plants transformed with streptococcus mutans gene encoding glucosyltransferase C enzyme

摘要

The present invention provides methods of making paper utilizing glucans, produced by the glucosyltransferase C enzyme of the species Streptococcus mutans, instead of modified starches. The present glucans are functionally similar to the hydroxethyl modified starch and are particularly useful in the coating step of paper manufacture. The present glucans also exhibit thermoplastic properties and impart gloss to the paper during the coating step. In particular, the present invention provides plant cells and plants transformed with the Streptococcus mutans gene encoding the glucosyltransferase C enzyme.