Aconitate hydratase activity and citrate content of heart and kidney in fluoride affected cows.

Abstract

Heart and kidney tissues from Holstein, Hereford and cross bred beef cows suffering from chronic fluoride toxicosis were analyzed for citric acid content and aconitate hydratase (citrate (isocitrate) hydro-lyase, EC 4.2.1.3) activity and the results were compared with those obtained with tissues from healthy cattle. Citric acid concentration was decreased 54-60% in kidney and heart of fluoride affected cattle. Aconitate hydratase activity in heart tissue showed an increase of about 25% in the heart tissue and a decrease of about 52% in the kidneys. The possible mode of action of these findings is discussed.