Changes in choline acetyltransferase activity of rat tissues during Chagas' disease.

1. The activity of choline acetyltransferase (CAT) measured by a radiolabeling method was significantly reduced in the heart, submandibular gland and esophagus of rats 20 days after inoculation with Trypanosoma cruzi (Y strain). 2. Normal enzyme activity was recovered in all these organs 100 days after inoculation. 3. In the transverse colon, no change, 30% reduction and normal activity were found at days 20, 100 and 430 of infection, respectively. 4. The data indicate recovery of parasympathetic function in experimental Chagas' disease. Axonal regrowth and sprouting are discussed as possible candidates for the recovery mechanisms.