Autooxidation of Actomyosin

Abstract

The oxidation of sulfhydryl groups in actomyosin is specifically catalyzed by ferrous or cupric ions. Ferric and lead ions protect actomyosin from oxidative degradation. In the absence of O2 there is no change in the sulfhydryl content of actomyosin. Without trace metal ions and the presence of O2 there is a very slow degradation of actomyosin. Agitation markedly increases the rate of degradation.