Uptake of protoporphyrin IX by isolated rat liver mitochondria

Rat liver mitochondria accumulate protoporphyrin IX from the suspending medium into the inner membrane in parallel with the magnitude of the transmembrane K+ gradient (K+in/K+out). Only protoporphyrin IX taken up in parallel with the transmembrane K+ gradient is available for haem synthesis. Coproporphyrins (isomers I and III) are not taken up by the mitochondria. The results support the suggestion by Elder & Evans [(1978) Biochem. J. 172, 345-347] that the prophyrin to be taken up by the inner mitochondrial membrane belongs to the protoporphyrin(ogen) IX series. Protoporphyrin IX at concentrations above 15 nmol/mg of protein has detrimental effects on the structural and functional integrity of the mitochondria. The relevance of these effects to the hepatic lesion in erythropoietic protoporphyria is discussed.