Characterization of multiple forms of acetylcholinesterase in electric organ of Torpedo marmorata.

Three molecular forms of acetylcholinesterase can be isolated by velocity sedimentation from extracts of electric organ from Torpedo marmorata. Their apparent sedimentation coefficients are 6 S, 13 S and 17 S. Characteristic differences are found with regard to their solubilization properties. The 13 S and 17 S forms are extracted only in the presence of high salt concentrations. At low ionic conditions only a fraction of the 6 S form is solubilized. Quantitative recovery of this form can be achieved in the presence of Triton X-100 at concentrations of 0.5-1%. The relative ratio of the various forms changes during the development of the fish.