Simple micro-assay methods for enzymes of purine metabolism.

Xanthine oxidase, guanase, 5'-nucleotidase, and adenosine deaminase in human epidermis were demonstrated and accurately assayed with about 20 microng. of tissue by the new micro-assay methods which rely on the isolation of isotopically labeled end products from the substrates by electrophoresis on cellulose acetate membranes. These assay methods are rapid, reliable, and sensitive and are highly suitable for studies of small amount of human tissue. Theses methods for the separation of purine derivatives with cellulose acetate membrane will also permit the assays of purine nucleoside phosphorylase and nucleoside kinase.