Significance of glycosidases in myelin-lipid metabolism. I. Studies in diencephalon of fresh water turtle (Lissemys punctata granosa).

The contribution deals with functional significance of glycosidases in myelin-lipid metabolism. Glycosidases (beta-galactosidase, beta-glucosidase and beta-glucuronidase), in diencephalon of turtle, are observed in the myelinated fibers of tractus opticus and dorsal and ventral peduncles of lateral fore-brain bundles. Further, phospholipids preparations of this area have represented mirror image of glycosidases, suggesting role of these enzymes in its metabolism. Glycolipids concentration in myelin is also very high, further, suggesting the role of glycosidases in their degradation. The enzymatic activity in cellular elements is quite poor and same is also true with phospholipids.