Effect of denervation on the glycolytic metabolism of the main electric organ of Electrophorus electricus (L.).

Biochemical modifications of the glycolytic metabolism of the electric organ of Electrophorus electricus (L.) have been studied as a function of denervation. The activities of LDH, MDH and the concentrations of ATP, lactic and pyruvic acids were measured at intervals of zero, 15, 30 and 60 days following denervation. In parallel, CPK activity was also measured. All of these biochemical characteristics were substantially altered by denervation. The results obtained point to a change, after 15 days of denervation, from the normal anaerobic to an aerobic metabolism which remains after 30 days and reverts to anaerobic at 60 days.