The clinical reference values for serum protein fractionation were determined by mean of AES 600 (automated electrophoresis system, OLYMPUS Co., Ltd.) using a new cellulose acetate membrane “SEPARAX-SP.” All of the fraction values obtained using the new membrane were similar to those obtained using the Sartorius membrane in which electroendosmosis was fairly less. than in the case of SEPARAX, however, the α₂-fraction value measured by the SEPARAX-SP was higher than in the case of the Sartorius membrane, because β-lipoprotein migrated as the α₂-fraction.
Separation properties varied according to their adsorptive activities with respect to the serum proteins, as revealed by an expert system consisting of quantitative and graphical analysis of digital signals from the densitometer of the AES 600.
In addition to comparison with the conventional membrane, SEPARAX and Sartorius were compared with each other.
The utility and effectiveness of a new membrane “SEPARAX-SP” can be best appreciated on the basis of our experimental results.

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Mouse submaxillary gland shows sexually dimorphism. The submaxillary gland of male animal contains high concentration of growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), nerve growth factor (NGF) and kallikrein-like enzymes. Using labeled nucleic acid probes and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), we have demonstrated that EGF, NGF and some members of kallikrein gene mRNA concentration in female submaxillary gland increased after administration of testosterone or thyroxine. However in contrast to the effects on submaxillary gland, the gene expression on brain, kidney and pancreas were not affected by hormones. One kallikrein gene, mGK-6 was expressed at constant level in male and in female tissues and was not induced by hormones.
Comparisons of 5' flanking nucleotide sequence of members of kallikrein gene and genes encoding EGF and NGF have indicated the homologous sequence element within these genes. This element may be involved in the binding site for tissue specific regulately factor.

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