Local and systemic changes of acid proteinases during advanced stages of burn injuries

Rats were subjected to burns extending to 15% of their body surface. Enzyme activities were measured by a slightly modified Barrett technique between the 12th and 18th day after the burn injury. A statistically significant activation of acid proteolytic enzymes, in relation to mg protein, was seen in liver, spleen, kidney and stomach. In relation to grams fresh weight, an activation was seen in the kidney. Necrotic skin subsequent to burn injury showed a marked rise in activation compared with the skin of the control group, as well as with the skin of the burned animals. Increased enzyme contents were also detected in the intact skin of burned animals, compared with the skin of the control group.