Genetics of a tissue esterase polymorphism (Est-6) in the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Genetic analysis of a polymorphic tissue esterase revealed a new locus (Est-6) with two alleles (Est-6a and Est-6b) on linkage group VI of the rabbit. Est-6 is closely linked to the Est-1,2,4 cluster. Esterase of Est-6 is found in many organs, particularly in liver and small intestine, but not in erythrocytes and serum. Est-6 esterase hydrolyzes alpha-naphthyl acetate and butyrate, naphthol AS-D acetate, indoxyl acetate, and butyrate as well as 5-bromoindoxyl acetate, N-acetyl-L-alanine-alpha-naphthyl ester but not 4-methylumbelliferyl acetate and fluorescein diacetate. The enzyme is inhibited by bis-p-nitrophenyl phosphate and eserine but not by p-chloromercuribenzoate. It was classified as a carboxylesterase (EC 3.1.1.1). Based on chromosomal localization, tissue distribution, substrate specificity, inhibitor sensitivity, and range of pI's, rabbit Est-6 is assumed to be homologous with mouse Es-7.