study of atypical cholinesterase in offspring's of a heterozygous couple

Deficiency of plasma cholinesterase [ChE] was detected in several members of the family tested on suspicion of genetic modification of enzyme structure. Prolonged apnea following administration of suxamethomum [succinylecholine] was due to low levels of cholinesterase from homozygote for atypical gene [E[1a], E[1a]]. Screening of immediate relations showed atypical genetic response in cholinesterase [ChE] activity in offsprings of a heterozygous couple. [ChE [E[1a], E[1u]]. As our data are in accordance with results obtained by other investigators, this observation cannot be regarded as exceptional