The regulation and function of ornithine decarboxylase and of the polyamines.

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter highlights the regulation and function of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and of the polyamines. ODC catalyzes the synthesis of putrescine. It is necessary to distinguish among several possible functions of polyamines, to define the state of the cell at the time of induction, and to differentiate among various modes of induction of ODC activity. The chapter discusses a few new aspects of the regulation and function of ODC and of the polyamines and some of the uncertainties in the field. It also presents areas that are closely related to the regulation and the interrelationships of the polyamines in a variety of physiological and pathological states. The chapter also explores the possible functions of the polyamines.