Differential expression of allelic carboxylesterase-2 genes in oocytes of loach (Misgurnus fossilis L.) and heterogeneity of loach oocytes and eggs for the expression of allelic carboxylesterase-2 genes.

Tissue and cell differences have been found in the expression of allelic carboxylesterase-2 (E-2) (carboxylic ester hydrolase, E.C. 3.1.1.1) genes of the loach. The relative activity of two allozymes in the brain and muscles of heterozygotes is similar, whereas in oocytes and eggs of the same fish the activity of one of the allozymes is considerably greater than that of the other. Oocytes and eggs of some heterozygotes were shown to be heterogeneous for the expression of E-2 alleles. The phenomenon implies that roe produced by a heterozygous female can contain two or more egg types: in some the alleles are equally expressed, while in others one of the alleles is predominantly expressed.