Bovine pituitary heparin-binding fibroblast growth factors: acidic and basic forms

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Bovine pituitaries are a source of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs).
• Previous research indicated the presence of FGFs in various tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize acidic and basic FGF from bovine pituitaries.
• To evaluate purification methods for these FGF forms.

Main Methods:

• Heparin-affinity chromatography was employed for FGF isolation.
• Isoelectric focusing was used for further purification of acidic FGF.
• Characterization included isoelectric point, molecular weight, and immunological assays.

Main Results:

• Both acidic and basic FGF were identified in bovine pituitaries.
• Heparin-affinity chromatography efficiently purified basic FGF.
• Acidic FGF required additional isoelectric focusing for complete separation from basic FGF.
• Acidic FGF exhibited characteristics similar to brain acidic FGF, suggesting a relationship.
• Basic FGF properties were consistent with previously described forms.

Conclusions:

• Bovine pituitaries contain distinct acidic and basic FGF forms.
• Heparin-affinity chromatography is a suitable method for basic FGF purification.
• Further purification is necessary to isolate pure acidic FGF.
• Acidic FGF from pituitary shares similarities with brain-derived acidic FGF.