Two tissue-specific loci for octopine dehydrogenase in Tapes Decussatus (Bivalvia, Veneridae)

Abstract 1. 1. Octopine dehydrogenase catalyses the reductive condensation of pyruvate and arginine to produce octopine in mollusc tissues. 2. 2. In all Bivalvia species studied to date, a single polymorphic locus, anodally migrating, was demonstrated. 3. 3. We studied, by starch gel electrophoresis, octopine isozymes in Tapes decussatus tissues. 4. 4. A polymorphic anodal form is present in adductor muscle, foot muscle, mantle and gill. 5. 5. A hepatopancreas-specific form, cathodally migrating, is also evident.