Enzymatic modifications of bovine adrenocortical angiotensin II receptors.

Several classes of proteolytic enzymes were used to gain an insight into the biochemical composition of the antiotensin II (ATII) receptor prepared from bovine adrenal cortices. Exposure of the receptor fractions to trypsin reduced their capacity to bind [3H]ATII. Phospholipases A2 and C similarly inhibited the [3H]ATII binding process, while phospholipase D had no effect. Binding was stimulated following addition of phosphatidylcholine but inhibited by lysophosphatidylcholine. Neuraminidase had no influence on [3H]ATII affinity for binding, while beta-galactosidase reduced binding of the radioligand. Concanavalin A did not displace [3H]ATII bound to receptor fractions. Very little aminopeptidase activity was detected in the receptor fraction, relative to the homogenate. The data suggest that the ATII recognition sites contain protein moieties, while phospholipids may play an essential role in ATII binding. Galactose units may form a part of the ATII receptor not directly associated with the binding site. The peptidase studies indicate that ATII probably cannot be hydrolyzed to its des-Asp1 metabolite at or near the site of binding.