Hemolytic Property of Some Carbohydrases; Their Possible Role in Red Cell Destruction

β-glucuronidase, in concentration above the normal level in the blood, hemolyzed human red blood cells after a latent period of 10 to 12 hours. Erythrocytes sensitized by specific antibodies are lysed in the presence of β-glucuronidase in physiologic concentrations (approximately 200 Fishman units per 100 ml. of serum). Other enzymes, such as hyaluronidase and lysozyme, are hemolytic also. Similarity between these enzymes and the lysins found in pre-incubated tissue extracts is pointed out. It is suggested that β-glucuronidase and hyaluronidase play some role in the destruction of red blood cells under certain pathologic conditions. The inhibition of the lytic action of β-glucuronidase by D-glucosaccharic acid and by small concentration of silver nitrate is shown. Inhibitors of β-glucuronidase lysis could be of some value in the treatment of some hemolytic disorders.