Calcium-dependent adenosine triphosphatase activity preservation in isolated sarcoplasmic reticulum

ATPase activity in sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles was measured before and after storage for several weeks and under a variety of conditions. Rapid freezing and storage at-80 degrees C provided optimum protection of enzyme activity. Sarcoplasmic reticulum preparations stored at 0 degrees C or frozen slowly and stored at-20 degrees C were not stable. At 0 degrees C sucrose, glycerol, and dithiothreitol had a stabilizing effect while NaCl, dimethylsulfoxide, and antioxidants afforded little or no protection.