ISSN:
1573-4927
Keywords:
xanthommatin synthesis
;
phenoxazinone synthase
;
eye pigmentation
;
Drosophila
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Notes:
Abstract Particulate fractions from the heads of Drosophila melanogaster catalyze the conversion of o-aminophenols to phenoxazinones. This particulate enzyme is stimulated by Mn2+. It has a number of features which distinguish it clearly from the Mn2+-dependent activity found in the soluble fraction. The particulate enzyme has a characteristic developmental pattern, showing a marked increase in activity at about the time of onset of xanthommatin synthesis. In addition, it is much reduced in activity in a number of xanthommatin-deficient mutants (v, cn, st, cd, and w). We believe that the head particulate enzyme is involved in xanthommatin biosynthesis and that the developmental onset of synthesis of this pigment is brought about by the synthesis or activation of this enzyme.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00485139
