Hemolytic property of some carbohydrases; their possible role in red cell destruction

-glucuronidase, in concentration above the normal level in the blood, hemolyzed human red blood cells after a latent period of 10 to 12 hours. Erythrocytessensitized by specific antibodies are lysed in the presence of -glucuronidase inphysiologic concentrations (approximately 200 Fishman units per 100 ml. ofserum). Other enzymes, such as hyaluronidase and lysozyme, are hemolytic also.Similarity between these enzymes and the lysins found in pre-incubated tissueextracts is pointed out. It is suggested that -glucuronidase and hyaluronidaseplay some role in the destruction of red blood cells under certain pathologic conditions. The inhibition of the lytic action of -glucuronidase by D-glucosaccharicacid and by small concentration of silver nitrate is shown. Inhibitors of -glucuronidase lysis could be of some value in the treatment of some hemolyticdisorders.

Submitted on October 8, 1954 Accepted on May 30, 1955