PNGase F is suitable for the release of all types (high-mannose, hybrid and complex) N-linked glycans from glycoproteins and glycopeptides. PNGase F will not remove oligosaccharides containing α(1-3) linked core fucose commonly found on plant glycoproteins.

PNGase F cleaves N-linked (asparagine-linked) oligosaccharides from glycoproteins. The enzyme deaminates asparagine to aspartic acid, leaving the oligosaccharides intact. Denaturation increases the rate of cleavage. Most native proteins can still be completely N-deglycosylated but incubation time must be increased. The enzyme will remain fully active under reaction conditions (37°C) for at least 96 hours. PNGase F will not remove oligosaccharides containing Alpha-(1,3)-linked core fucose commonly found on plant glycoproteins; for this purpose, use peptide N-glycosidase A.