AN ISOLATION METHOD OF CATECHOLAMINE AND EFFECT OF RESERPINE ON THE ENZYME SYSTEMS RELATED TO THE FORMATION AND INACTIVATION OF CATECHOLAMINES IN BRAIN

Abstract

A new method using the Doulite C-25 resin column for the separation of catecholamines (CA) in brain was described. This method may be applied to the measurement of catecholamine in other tissues. Dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NA) were proved to be synthesized from DOPA in guinea pig brain in vitro. The activities of 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl alanine (DOPA) decarboxylase and Da-[beta]-oxidase were increased by the administration of reserpine. The activity of monoamine oxidase was also increased and it was histochemically demonstrated. The increased activities of enzyme systems related to the formation and inactivation of CA by the administration of reserpine resulted in the increase of total acid catechols content in brain.