Electrophoretic Characterization of Pregastric Esterase from the Calf1,2

Abstract

Summary This investigation was conducted primarily to determine whether pregastric esterase from the calf is a single enzyme or a group of enzymes. Accordingly, sham-fed water and extracts of various alimentary and related tissues were subjected to electrophoresis in starch gel, which was stained histochemically to locate individual esterases. The results indicate that pregastric esterase is composed of at least six different enzymes. Resolution of these esterases was obtained in gel containing 8g of starch per 100ml of buffer, but not in that containing 15g per 100ml. Thus, the components of pregastric esterase are believed to be of high molecular weight. Moreover, these esterases precipitate at a slightly acid pH, thereby providing a means of separating pregastric esterase from nonsecretory esterases that are present also in tissue extracts.