Automated determination of arginase in human erythrocytes

Ultramicromethod for the determination of human arginase in the presence of urea

A technique for arginase determination in body fluids in the presence of urea is described. [14C]Arginine is hydrolysed by arginase to [14C]urea and ornithine. [14C]Urea is separated with paper chromatography and measured in a liquid scintillation counter. The experimental conditions including the pH, substrate concentration, activator, solvent for chromatography, urea inhibition, and arginase in hemolysates, are discussed.

A case of sideroblastic anaemia associated with marked elevation of erythrocytic arginase activity

Abnormal erythrocytic arginase activity about 30 times higher than normal controls, was found in a 63-year-old male with sideroblastic anaemia. We suggest that an abnormal concentration of arginase in the erythroblasts, in this case reduces the arginine concentration and results in decreased haemoglobin synthesis.