Characterisation of human foetal liver Zn-metallothioneins using differential pulse polarography

A study on electrochemical characterisation of three isoforms of human foetal liver Zn-metallothioneins, labelled MT-0, MT-1 and MT-2, has been performed by using differential pulse polarography (DPP). Two different peaks, attributed to two different Zn complexes with metallothioneins, have been detected. The electrochemical behaviour is similar for the three studied isoforms. Studies on the addition of Cd(2+) and Zn(2+) as well as studies as a function of pH have been carried out. The association and dissociation equilibria of metal ions with MTs are reversible in the studied pH range. The behaviour of Zn complexes in human foetal liver Zn-metallothioneins is comparable to the Cd complexes obtained using other mammalian Cd, Zn-metallothioneins, particularly as a function of pH.