[Conditions of activation of guanylate cyclase from human platelets]

Preincubation (50 min, 0 degree C) with nitroprusside increases 12-fold the activity of human platelet guanylate cyclase. The stimulating effect of nitroprusside is enhanced two-fold by dithiothreitol (2 mM) and by 60% by hemoglobin (20 micrograms/ml). Storage of guanylate cyclase preparations (105000 g supernatant) for 2-3 days at 4 degrees C causes a progressive increase of the enzyme activity and diminishes the stimulating effect of nitroprusside. After storage of guanylate cyclase preparations for 3 days, hemoglobin (20 micrograms/ml) augments the stimulating effect of nitroprusside by 130%. It is concluded that the degree of activation of guanylate cyclase by nitroprusside reflects the functional state of the enzyme.