Two different plasma membrane enriched fractions were isolated from the homogenized rat kidney by differential centrifugation in dextran or sucrose. Marker enzymes and morphological studies indicated that one fraction (BLM) was enriched in membrane particles originating from the basolateral membrane of tubular cells, while the other, the PM fraction, contained membrane from the luminal side. Membrane-bound kallikrein and renin were found in both fractions. Kallikrein activity was enhanced by phospholipase A2, melittin and detergents. Renin activity was greatly increased after solubilization by the same agents. In addition to bound kallikrein and renin BLM contained a prekallikrein which was activated by trypsin or plasmin. BLM prekallikrein has a slower electrophoretic mobility and a higher molecular weight than urinary or glandular kallikrein. The basal membrane of tubular cells appears to contain all of the essential enzyme components of the kallikrein and renin systems. Kallikrein of the PM fraction is probably released into the urine, while prekallikrein and kallikrein from basal membrane may be the source of kallikrein in lymph and renal venous effluent. Membrane-bound renin could be a form of renin retained by the kidney.
Prekallikrein, kallikrein and renin in membrane fractions of rat kidney. Publishing Authors By Initials
