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Avian serum esterases: species and temporal variations and their possible consequences
1Central Science Laboratory, MAFF, Slough, Berks, UK.
Chemico-Biological Interactions
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Avian serum
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Toxicology
- Ornithology
Background:
- Avian serum esterases, primarily 'B' type (cholinesterases and carboxylesterases), are crucial in detoxifying pesticides.
- Mammalian carboxylesterase, a 'B' esterase, inactivates anticholinesterase compounds, suggesting a similar role in birds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate species and temporal variations in avian serum 'B' esterases.
- To explore the influence of these variations on pesticide toxicity in avian species.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of avian serum esterase activity and forms.
- Comparison of esterase profiles across different avian species and dietary habits (carnivorous vs. omnivorous/herbivorous).
- Examination of seasonal, diurnal, and developmental changes in enzyme activity.
Main Results:
- Significant differences observed in carboxylesterase and cholinesterase activity and forms between carnivorous and omnivorous/herbivorous avian species.
- Demonstrated seasonal, diurnal, and developmental variations in avian serum 'B' esterase activity.
Conclusions:
- Avian serum 'B' esterase activity varies significantly by species and time, impacting their ability to detoxify pesticides.
- Understanding these variations is critical for assessing avian susceptibility to organophosphorus and carbamate pesticide toxicity.
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