The nature of the transport adenosine triphosphatase-digitalis complex. VIII. The relationship between in vivo-formed (3-H-ouabain-Na+, K+-adenosine triphosphatase) complex and ouabain-induced positive inotropism.

Ouabain interaction with a possible pharmacologic receptor, Na+, K+-adenosine triphosphatase (Na+, K+-ATPase), has been assessed by continual perfusion of canine hearts with various concentrations of both unlabeled and 3-H-ouabain. A positive dose-related correlation between enzyme inhibition, increased contractile force and drug binding to the enzyme has been established. The complex formed between 3-H-oubain and Na+, K+-ATPase in vivo appears to have the same characteristics as that formed in vitro, suggesting that the nature of both complexes is the same. These data are consistent with the concept that Na+, K+-ATPase may be an important pharmacologic receptor for cardiac glycosides.