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Immunohistochemical and subcellular studies of aminopeptidase M localization in rat brain: microvessels and synaptic

C Gros1, B Solhonne, B Giros

  • 1Unité 109 de Neurobiologie et Pharmacologie, Centre Paul Broca de l'INSERM, Paris, France.

NIDA Research Monograph
|January 1, 1986
PubMed

Insights

Aminopeptidase M (APM) is primarily found in microvessels, according to immunohistochemistry and biochemical studies. Higher activity of APM was also detected in synaptic membrane fractions.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Neuroscience
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Aminopeptidase M (APM) is an enzyme implicated in various physiological and pathological processes.
  • Understanding the precise localization of APM is crucial for elucidating its functions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the predominant localization of aminopeptidase M (APM) within biological tissues.
  • To investigate the specific cellular compartments where APM exhibits high enzymatic activity.

Main Methods:

  • Immunohistochemistry was employed to visualize APM distribution in situ.
  • Biochemical assays were performed on isolated microvessels to quantify APM activity.
  • Subcellular fractionation was used to isolate and analyze fractions enriched in synaptic membranes.

Main Results:

  • Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a primary localization of APM within microvasculature.
  • Biochemical studies confirmed the presence and activity of APM in isolated microvessels.
  • Fractions enriched in synaptic membranes exhibited a high relative specific activity of APM.

Conclusions:

  • Aminopeptidase M (APM) is predominantly localized in microvascular structures.
  • APM also demonstrates significant enzymatic activity in synaptic membrane fractions, suggesting potential roles in neuronal function.

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