Adenylate deaminase activity in the tissues of the rat during its breeding cycle

The adenylate deaminase activity of muscle, liver, kidney, brain, intestine, stomach and adipose tissue have been measured during pregnancy, lactation and post-lactation of the rat. No significant changes have been found in muscle and kidney, with depressed values in the liver of pregnant rats--in agreement with the loss of metabolic rôle in nitrogen handling during this period--. Adipose tissue changes as well as those of skin actually followed anatomical changes in fat content of both tissues. Stomach and intestine patterns were significantly different, with a maximum for the bowel at mid-lactation.