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Carboxylesterases in primate brain: characterization of multiple forms
The International Journal of Biochemistry
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Primate brain carboxylesterase activity was studied using phenyl valerate. Carboxylesterase III was identified as the neurotoxic esterase (NTE), crucial for understanding organophosphate toxicity in primates.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Background:
- Carboxylesterases are enzymes involved in various physiological processes.
- Understanding their activity in the primate brain is crucial for assessing neurotoxicology.
- Organophosphorus compounds are known neurotoxins that interact with esterases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize carboxylesterase activity in the primate brain (Macaca mulatta).
- To identify the specific carboxylesterase responsible for neurotoxic esterase (NTE) activity.
- To compare the inhibition kinetics of brain carboxylesterases with acetylcholinesterase and cholinesterase.
Main Methods:
- Assessing phenyl valerate (PV) hydrolysis by primate brain extracts.
- Characterizing eight distinct carboxylesterases based on PV-hydrolyzing activity.
- Determining inhibition rate constants using organophosphorus compounds.
- Comparing inhibition data with primate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and cholinesterase (ChE).
Main Results:
- Eight carboxylesterases were identified and characterized in the primate brain.
- Carboxylesterase III was identified as the neurotoxic esterase (NTE).
- Differential inhibition patterns were observed between brain carboxylesterases and AChE/ChE.
Conclusions:
- Carboxylesterase III is the primary NTE in the primate brain.
- Understanding these enzyme activities is vital for assessing risks associated with organophosphate exposure.
- The study provides insights into the physiological, clinical, and toxicological significance of primate brain carboxylesterases.