Distribution of adenosine-5'-diphosphatase activity in the lactating bovine mammary gland

A Ca2+- and Mg(2+)-stimulated adenosine-5'-diphosphatase has been found in lactating bovine mammary glands. The enzyme is associated with membranes of mitochondrial, microsomal, and Golgi apparatus fractions. The pH activity curves for the Golgi apparatus and microsomal fractions display two distinct maxima, one at pH 5.8 and the other between pH 7.4 and 8.4. Studies with activators and inhibitors indicate the enzyme is similar to adenosine-5'-diphosphatase found in other tissues. Its occurrence in the Golgi apparatus fraction indicates a possible role for this enzyme in the milk secretory process, particularly in ATP cycling in vesicles. Its occurrence in the microsomal fraction suggests a role in plasma membrane functioning.