Degradation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and LDL - protamine complexes by lysosomal protease

Native LDL are degraded by the protease of the lysosomal extract but they are not sensitive to isolated cathepsin D. Protamine increases the sensitivity of LDL to the effect of lysosomal protease and makes them sensitive to the effect of cathepsin D. Degradation of LDL by lysosomal protease is most intensive between pH 4.0 and 4.5 but in case of LDL bound with protamine it is most intensive at pH 4.5--5.0.