Aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase in the muscle of Ascaris suum (Nematoda).

The muscle of Ascaris suum contains sorbitol dehydrogenase [EC 1.1.1.14] and the apparent Km values indicate that the enzyme favours fructose formation. Aldose reductase [EC 1.1.1.21] is also present and like the mammalian enzyme it has a very high apparent Km for glucose. Possible functions of the sorbitol pathway in Ascaris muscle are discussed.