Degradation of Glycosaminoglycans by Tadpole Tissue

Abstract A preparation from tadpole tail fin has been previously shown to degrade hyaluronic acid. This preparation has now been examined for activity in degrading other glycosaminoglycans. Dermatan sulfate, heparin, and chondroitin 6-sulfate are completely resistant. Chondroitin 4-sulfate, however, is degraded. This selective activity toward chondroitin 4-sulfate presents a possible means of obtaining chondroitin 6-sulfate free from chondroitin 4-sulfate and a method of assaying relative amounts of chondroitin 4-sulfate and chondroitin 6-sulfate in mixtures.