Characterization of the brain family of aromatic amine N-acetyltransferases.
Arylamine and arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase activities in the rat brain were isolated and partially characterized. A total of four N -acetyltransferase activities were identified using a combination of three separation procedures, ammonium sulfate fractionation, methotrexate affinity chromatography, and size-exclusion HPLC. Two of the N -acetyltransferase activities demonstrated preference for arylamines and differential sensitivity to inhibition by methotrexate. The other two activities were characterized as arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase based on their preference for arylalkylamines such as serotonin and tryptamine. Potential functions of these enzyme activities in the brain are discussed.
Gaudet
S J
SJ
Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057-1028.
Namboodiri
M A
MA