Tissue specific esterase isozymes of the mouse (Mus musculus)

For this report, the tissue‐specific esterase isozymes of 35 organs of the mouse, Mus musculus , were studied by means of starch gel electrophoresis. Zymogram patterns of organs from males and females of the inbred strains SJL/J, C57BL/6J, and RF/J were compared. The ensemble of esterase isozymes expressed by each organ is in most instances distinctly unique. Sexual dimorphisms are reported for the submaxillary gland and the kidney. These are believed to be under hormonal control. It is postulated that enzyme differences between the male and female with regard to the submaxillary gland and kidney may be significant in the biosynthesis and/or secretion of pheromones.