CHANGES IN LUNG LYSYL OXIDASE ACTIVITY IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-DIABETES AND IN STARVATION

The effects of streptozotocin-induced diabetes and of starvation on the lysyl oxidase activity of rat lung were investigated. Enzyme activity was elevated 2-3 fold in the lungs of streptozotocin-diabetic rats. In contrast, starvation of rats produced a rapid loss of lung lysyl oxidase activity, with levels approximating 25% of control values after 48-72 h of starvation. Enzyme activity was essentially fully restored to control values upon refeeding the 48-h starved animals for 3 h. These studies demonstrate the responsiveness of lysyl oxidase to these physiological states and suggest a component, enzymatic basis of change in lung function known to occur in the diabetic state. © 1979.