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Human liver alkaline phosphatase, purification and partial sequencing: homology with the placental isozyme

Insights

Human liver alkaline phosphatase (AP) is a highly glycosylated enzyme composed of two subunits. Its amino-terminal sequence shows significant homology with bovine liver AP and human placental AP isozymes.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Enzymology

Background:

  • Alkaline phosphatase (AP) is a crucial enzyme found in various human tissues.
  • Understanding the structural and sequence characteristics of human liver AP is essential for its functional and evolutionary studies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To purify and characterize human liver alkaline phosphatase (AP).
  • To determine the molecular weight, subunit composition, and N-terminal amino acid sequence of human liver AP.
  • To compare the N-terminal sequences with other AP forms.

Main Methods:

  • Homogeneous purification of human liver alkaline phosphatase.
  • Molecular weight determination using SDS-PAGE.
  • Endoglycosidase F treatment to assess glycosylation.
  • Amino-terminal sequencing via Edman degradation.

Main Results:

  • Purified human liver AP has a native molecular weight of 150,000 Da, composed of two 75,000 Da subunits.
  • Endoglycosidase F treatment reduced the molecular weight to 50,000 Da, indicating extensive glycosylation.
  • The N-terminal 22-residue sequence was determined.
  • Identical N-terminal sequences were observed between human and bovine liver AP.
  • Significant homology was found between the N-termini of human liver and human placental AP isozymes.

Conclusions:

  • Human liver AP is a heavily glycosylated dimeric protein.
  • The N-terminal sequence is highly conserved between human and bovine liver AP.
  • The N-terminal region of human liver AP shares homology with its placental counterpart, suggesting conserved structural or functional roles.

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