Glycosylation of small molecules can significantly improve
their
physicochemical and biological properties. Only recently, decisive
improvements in the biotechnological production of small-molecule
glucosides (SMGs) have resulted in a large number of these compounds
now being commercially available. In this study, we have analyzed
a number of physical, chemical, and biological parameters of 31 SMGs,
including solubility, stability, melting and pyrolysis points, partition
coefficient log P, minimum inhibitory concentration
against Escherichia coli (MIC), and enzymatic degradability.
The properties such as water solubility, pH stability, and MICs of
the glycosides were strongly dependent on the structures of the respective
aglycones, which is why the SMG clustered according to their aglycones
in most cases. Phenolic and furanone glucosides were readily hydrolyzed
by saliva and skin microflora, whereas monoterpenol glycosides were
poorer substrates for the enzymes involved. The results of this comparative
analysis of SMGs provide valuable information for elucidating the
biological functions of SMGs and the future technological applications
of these useful natural products.