Species specificity of phosphate triester anticholinesterases.

Abstract

Two widely distributed enzyme systems degrade phosphate triester anticholinesterase agents to inactive phosphate diesters by nonhydrolytic mechanisms. The substrate specificity of these enzymes is discussed and the level of activity in various mammalian livers is described. The distribution of these enzymes is an important factor in accounting for the species specificity of at least some anticholinesterase agents.