A rapid technique for the estimation of polynucleotide adenylyltransferase and ribonucleic Acid polymerase in plant tissues.

Nucleic acid-dependent polynucleotide adenylytransferase (EC 2.7.7.19) and ribonucleic acid polymerase (EC 2.7.7.6) have been partially purified from maize tissues (Zea mays L.) utilizing ammonium sulfate precipitation and batch diethylaminoethylcellulose chromatography. The technique is applicable to the simultaneous processing of up to eight samples of plant tissue and affords a rapid and reproducible means of assaying these two enzymes from small quantities of kernels or seedlings. The kinetic characteristics of the partially purified enzymes resemble those from more extensively purified preparations.