U.v. wavelength dependence for the induction of ornithine decarboxylase activity in hairless mouse epidermis.

Induction of mouse epidermal ornithine decarboxylase activity by u.v. radiation has been studied with a monochromator. Dose-response studies were carried out with 10 nm increments between 260 and 320 nm. Time-course studies were carried out at 280, 290 and 300 nm. Ornithine decarboxylase activity, assessed at 24 h post-irradiation, was induced in a dose-dependent fashion between 260 and 310 nm with peak activity at 280-290 nm. These data suggest that the chromophore is a protein.