Beta-alanine transaminase activity in black and suppressor of black mutations of Drosophila melanogaster.

An assay for beta-alanine transaminase activity in extracts of Drosophila melanogaster has been developed. By use of this assay, the levels of beta-alanine transaminase activity in several strains of flies has been examined as a function of developmental age. The black mutation shows elevated levels of activity compared to wild type, while suppressor of black strains show decreased levels compared to wild type.