Effect of melatonin administration on activities of some lysosomal enzymes in the mouse.

OBJECTIVES Changes in the activity of beta-glucuronidase, N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, cathepsin D and L, alanine aminopeptidase and lysosomal acid lipase in lysosomal fractions of the liver and kidneys of mice, which were administered 20 mg/kg b.w. of exogenous melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) for 7 and 14 days were investigated. METHODS The slices of the liver and kidney were homogenized in 0.1M phosphate buffer, pH 7.0. Homogenates were subjected to differentiated centrifuging and determination of studied enzymes. RESULTS Melatonin caused lowering of the activity of all the investigated lysosomal enzymes in the liver and kidney. CONCLUSION Administration of melatonin was caused the lowering of the activity of the investigated lysosomal enzymes in comparison with values in control groups.