Effect of Copper Deficiency and Inhibitors on the Ainine Oxidase Activity of Chick Tissues.

Abstract
Summary The effect of copper deficiency and a dietary lathyrogen (BAPN) on the amine oxidase activity of various tissues in growing chicks was investigated. The benzylamine oxidase activity of aorta, heart and kidney was decreased in copper-deficient chicks compared to copper-supplemented chicks while the activity of liver was not affected. Copper added in vitro partially restored the activity of deficient aortic tissue. Dietary BAPN had no effect on aortic benzylamine oxidase activity but in vitro addition of BAPN competitively inhibited the enzyme. Ascorbic acid in vitro also inhibited the activity of aortic benzylamine oxidase but in a non-competitive manner.