Genetic evidence for the involvement of different oxidative mechanisms in drug oxidation

by Jonsson & Sachs (1970), Furness (1971), Wadsworth (1973), Gillespie & McGrath (1975) or Aprigliano & Hermsmeyer (1976). Thus there may be a minimum time of 1-2h required for destruction of adrenergic nerves with 6-hydroxydopamine. Norephedrine is a sympathomimetic drug (Goodman & Gilman 1970). Since the response to norephedrine was abolished by 6-hydroxydopamine, we conclude that it is predominantly an indirectly-acting sympathomimetic amine, according to the classification of Fleckenstein & Burn (1953). It is concluded that this treatment schedule is an effective method for selective destruction of adrenergic nerves in the human vas deferens in vitro. It is particularly suitable for human tissues where in vivo treatment would be impossible. We wish to thank Sister Leckie and Mr Dean, Family Planning Clinic, Glasgow, for their cooperation in making available vasectomy specimens, and the Wellcome Research Laboratories for generous gifts of methoxamine. W. D. R. was supported by an open scholarship from the Association of Commonwealth Universities. August 24, 1978