Genetic determination of amylase synthesis in the mouse.

Extensive genetic variation in structure and rate of synthesis of pancreatic amylase has been identified among strains of mice. The relative rate of synthesis of amylase varies from 0.15 in strain YBR to 0.26 in strain C3H. The number of electrophoretic isozymes of pancreatic amylase varies between one and four. In each strain with multiple amylase isozymes, a characteristic quantitative distribution of protein among the isozymes is observed. Isozyme proportions are determined by the relative rates of synthesis of each component. Congenic lines with different amylase phenotypes have been established. Genetic analysis reveals the close linkage of cis-acting sites determining rate of synthesis and electrophoretic mobility of mouse pancreatic amylase.