Evaluation of phenyl acetate esterase activity as an index of liver damage

Abstract

Phenyl acetate esterase, which is an A- or arylesterase according to Augustinsson's classification, was studied in serum and liver of mice, and in human serum. The following results were obtained. 1. 1. On subcellular fractionation, highest activity was found in the microsomal fraction, and migrated with the same mobility as serum albumin on starch block electrophoresis. 2. 2. Phenyl acetate esterase activity in mouse liver was used for the evaluation of drugs against liver injuries. 3. 3. Experimental liver damage was shown to be accompanied by a decrease of the phenyl acetate esterase activity in liver and serum simultaneously. 4. 4. The highest peak of activity in serum was found in the region of the albumin or prealbumin on starch block electrophoresis; it decreased in experimental liver damage in mice, or in cirrhosis in man. 5. 5. The marked decrease of phenyl acetate esterase activity in serum suggested with high probability the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis, or severe liver damage.