Prophenoloxidase and its activation in Paraplerurus sauridae (Digenea: Hemiuridae)

Electrophoretic studies on the phenol oxidase of Paraplerurus sauridae indicated that the enzyme exists in multiple forms. Based upon the difference in the electrophoretic pattern before and after activation of the enzyme, the possible mechanism of activation of the enzyme is suggested. The role of Mehlis' gland in the activation of the enzyme is also discussed. The various enzyme fractions showed differences in ability to utilise mono- and diphenolic substrates. The significance of the differences are discussed.