Beta-N-acetyl-D-glucosaminidase activity levels in atrophic gastrocnemius muscle of Rana esculenta.

1. The atrophic status induced by long-term sciatectomy or tenotomy is different, since only in the first case have we found an irreversible muscular degeneration. 2. Up to 20 days after denervation or tenotomy the beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase showed increased specific activity. 3. The time-course of the beta-NAG increase is closely correlated with the loss of contractile capacity. 4. beta-NAG increases to 170% and does not fall in 20 days after cutting the nerve; but increases to 150% on day 4 and falls to 130% on day 20 after tenotomy.