Metabolism of Testosterone by Guinea Pig Liver and Kidney Homogenates

Abstract

Homogenates of adult male guinea pig liver and kidney are able to metabolize testosterone to androstenedione. No other metabolites were detected. Optimum conditions for the action of the enzyme(s) have been determined in regard to amount of tissue, preparation of homogenate, cofactor, ph, duration of incubation and amount of steroid. The kidney differed from the liver in its response to the addition of nicotinamide and requirements of DPN. The activity of the tissues was quite high; 12 gm of either tissue under optimum conditions was able to convert approximately 50% of 50 mg of testosterone to androstenedione.