Factors influencing the stability of isolated acetylcholine receptor from Torpedo californica.
We have identified and investigated factors that alter the equilibrium acetylcholine binding properties of the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) upon its isolation from Torpedo electric tissue. Among these are 1) chemical modification of the disulfide cross-linked AChR dimer giving rise to a monomeric form having lower dissociation constants for acetylcholine during the initial tissue homogenization; 2) changes in the hydrophobic environment of the receptor molecule due to displacement of phospholipids from the receptor by detergents; and 3) the degree to which endogenous reactive receptor sulfhydryl groups are maintained in the unoxidized form.
Chang
H W
HW
Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons Columbia University, New York, N.Y. 10032, U.S.A.
Bock
E
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