Tyrosine decarboxylase catalyzes the removal of the carboxyl group from tyrosine to produce tyramine and carbon dioxide. Pyridoxal 5"-phosphate is a necessary cofactor. By using the apoenzyme prepared from cells grown on a vitamin B6 deficient medium pyridoxal phosphate may be determined. The HOLOenzyme may be used to determine tyrosine, phenylalanine and dihydroxyphenylalanine either manometrically or colorimetrically.