Partial characterization of the neurotrophic factor for maintenance of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase in the preganglionically denervated superior cervical ganglion of the cat in vivo.

In continuation of previous reports, it was found that the neurotrophic factor (NF) of the central nervous system of the cat for the maintenance of acetylcholinesterase (acetylcholine acetylhydrolase, EC 3.1.1.7; AcChoEase) in the denervated cat superior cervical ganglion is a heat-stable compound of low molecular weight (less than 1,000) and that it is probably a peptide. Acetylcholine and nerve growth factor were eliminated as the NF; cyclic AMP produced an effect similar to that of the NF. The NF is probably not present in significant amounts in liver or skeletal muscle; it appears to be present in small intestine. It does not modify the AcChoEase content of the nondenervated cat superior cervical ganglion. Possible mechanisms of action of the NF are discussed.