The separation and characterization of the methylumbelliferyl beta-galactosidases of human liver

Biochem J. 1976 Jul 1;157(1):189-95. doi: 10.1042/bj1570189.

Abstract

1. A previously uncharacterized form of human liver acid beta-galactosidase (EC 3.2.1.23), possibly a dimer of molecular weight 160 000, was resolved by gel filtration. It has the same ability to hydrolyse GM1 ganglioside as the two other acid beta-galactosidase forms. 2. The low-molecular-weight forms of acid beta-galactosidase undergo salt-dependent aggregation. 3. The high-molecular-weight component may consist of the low-molecular-weight forms bound to membrane fragments. It can be converted completely into a mixture of these forms. 4. The neutral beta-galactosidase activity can be resolved into two forms by DEAE-cellulose chromatography. They differ in their response to Cl-ions. 5. A new nomenclature is suggested for the six beta-galactosidases so far found in human liver. 6. The enzymic constituents of the beta-galactosidase bands resolved by electrophoresis were re-examined. The A band contains three components. A two-dimensional electrophoretic procedure for resolving the A band is described. 7. The effect of neuraminidase treatment on the behaviour of beta-galactosidases in various separation systems is examined.

MeSH terms

  • Chromatography, Gel
  • Chromatography, Ion Exchange
  • Electrophoresis, Starch Gel
  • Galactosidases / isolation & purification*
  • Humans
  • Hymecromone
  • Isoelectric Focusing
  • Isoenzymes / isolation & purification
  • Liver / enzymology*
  • Neuraminidase / pharmacology

Substances

  • Isoenzymes
  • Hymecromone
  • Galactosidases
  • Neuraminidase