Some properties of the lipoxygenase from rabbit reticulocytes

A lipoxygenase was enriched from the stoma-free supernatant of rabbit reticulocytes. The enzyme causes drastic deterioration of mitochondrial membranes. The release of matrix enzymes is paralleled by formation of products of lipid peroxidation. The enzyme reacts with isolated phospholipds and free cis-unsaturated fatty acids. Some properties were determined: molecular weight, isoelectric point, temperature and pH-dependence and Km value for linoleic acid. The enzyme is inhibited by reaction products and a variety of inhibitors, especially antioxidants and chelating agents.