Glucosidases are glycoside hydrolase enzymes. α-glucosidase is a glucosidase located in the brush border of the small intestine that acts upon α(1→4) bonds. α-Glucosidase inhibitor is a new type of antidiabetics. By reducing the postprandial blood sugar concentration, it can effectively control the blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the occurrence of diabetic complications.
β-glucosidase catalyzes the hydrolysis of the glycosidic bonds to terminal non-reducing residues in β-D-glucosides and oligosaccharides, with release of glucose. β-Glucosidase has attracted substantial attention in the scientific community because of its pivotal role in cellulose degradation, glycoside transformation and many other industrial processes. β-glucosidases catalyze the final step of cellulose hydrolysis and are essential in cellulose degradation.