Localization of some enzymes in the periodontium of the rat molar.

The authors studied alkaline and acid phosphatase, nonspecific esterase and NADH2 tetrazolium reductase localization in the periodontium of the rat molar. The activity of all enzymes studied remained preserved in spite of decalcification in EDTA. The activity of the enzymes was relatively high, the most intense reaction was observed, with the exception of alkaline phosphatase, in the gingival epithelium. In the junctional epithelium the reaction was less intense and decreased towards the end of the epithelial attachment. Only NADH2 tetrazolium reductase exhibited high activity in this region. The periodontal ligament displayed positive reaction in all enzymes studied with the exception of alkaline phosphatase, which was active only in the dentoalveolar ligament. The results of the present study indicate that highly active metabolic processes take place in the periodontium. The results and literature are discussed in the paper.