Abstract
Summary
Analysis of liver microsomal phospholipids of dystrophic and normal hamsters showed changes in the content and fatty acid composition of these compounds in the diseased animals. The total phospholipid, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylethanolamine concentrations were elevated. Determination of the fatty acid composition revealed a decrease in the concentration of monounsaturated fatty acids with a concomitant increase in the concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is concluded that these changes may affect the physical nature of membranes. Such a change in the physical state of the membrane may affect the orientation of membrane proteins, which in turn may cause alterations in enzymatic activity.
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