A method is described for the synthesis of L-[U-14C]cysteic acid from L-[U-14C] cysteine hydrochloride and for its subsequent utilisation as a substrate for cysteic acid decarboxylase activity in liver and brain. 2. The enzyme determination relies on the entrapment of radio-labelled carbon dioxide in Hyamine hydroxide. 3. The assay is sensitive, reliable and convenient and is particularly suitable for measuring the activity of the decarboxylase in crude enzyme preparations.