A comparison of muscle esterases in the fish genus trachurus by vertical gel electrophoresis

Abstract

1. 1. The multiple forms of soluble muscle esterases of Trachurus trachurus, T. picturatus and T. mediterraneus have been analysed by slab polyacrylamide electrophoresis. 2. 2. Seven bands of esterase activity were observed for each species and were classified according to their substrate and inhibitor specificities. 3. 3. Four of the bands were shared by the three species, but each one had its own unique esterase profile. 4. 4. Sialic acid was found attached to two carboxylesterases.