The multiplicity of pyridinium oxidases in Ricinus communis

The crude extract of pyridinium oxidizing enzymes from Ricinus communis seedlings was resolved into three enzyme entities by DEAE column chromatography. Their optimal pH, temperature stability, activation energies and substrate specificities are similar. Analysis of their enzymatic products have shown that each of these enzymes catalyses the oxidation of 1-methyl-nicotinonitrile perchlorate to form 4- and 6-pyridones.