Regulation of the rate of beta-galactosidase synthese by the Bgs and Bgt loci in the mouse.

We have developed an assay for the in vivo rate of beta-galactosidase synthesis in mouse tissues to assess the mechanism by which the Bgs and Bgt loci regulate activity levels of this enzyme. Genetically determined differences in liver and kidney beta-galactosidase content reflect equivalent differences in specific rates of enzyme synthesis. We conclude that Bgs and Bgt regulate beta-galactosidase activity by controlling the rate of synthesis of the beta-galactosidase molecule.