Nucleic acid sequences coding for the chondroitinase ABC gene and isolated chondroitinase ABE protein produced in a host cell transformed with a nucleic acid vector directing the expression of a nucleotide sequence coding for chondroitinase ABE protein described. Chondroitinase ABC prepared by chemical synthesis also described. Monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies which are specifically reactive with chondroitinase ABC protein are disclosed. The isolated chondroitinase ABC can be used in methods of treating intervertebral disc replacement, promoting neurite regeneration, and detecting galactosaminoglycans.