A set of genes on an operon then proceed to assemble the molecule and move it out of the bacterial cell.

[5] It is also an important component of the Bacillus anthracis capsule, hiding the bacterium from the immune system and allowing it to grow unchecked.

[6] Gamma PGA has been used for food (potential thickener), medicine (pre-clinical),[7][8] cosmeceuticals[9] and water treatment.

[12] Research is underway for its application in a treatment of type I diabetes and its potential use in the production of an AIDS vaccine.

[15] G-PGA was found to bind and efficiently remove 99.8% of lead ions from water via a suitable low-pressure ultrafiltration technique.