Distribution and relative activity of the isoenzymes of lactic dehydrogenase in the tissues of Rana ridibunda

Abstract

Lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) is found in Rana ridibunda in four visible molecular forms. No evidence is fortcoming of the activity proper to isoenzyme LDH-2. The isoenzymes have a very low electrophoretic velocity compared with those of the rat and of other amphibians.

Results quite recently obtained in our laboratory with other amphibians of diffe­ rent species suggest that amphibians also possess an electrophoretic pattern with the five isoenzymes typical of mammals.

The authoress discusses the possible influences of adaptation to the environment throughout the course of evolution as an explanation of the different activity of the isoenzymes in the heart and in other tissues in Rana ridibunda adults.