Oxidative enzymes in the sebaceous glands of the domestic cat.

The distribution and activities of several oxidative enzymes in various regions of the sebaceous glands of the domestic cat have been studied. The results obtained emphasize the outstanding importance of NADP-linked dehydrogenases for lipogenesis during sebum production. In particular, the reactions for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase were very strong. Among the NAD-linked dehydrogenases investigated, lactate dehydrogenase showed strong activity in the peripheral cells of the sebaceous gland. The reactions for cytochrome oxidase and succinate dehydrogenase were weaker.