Cell surface expression of 4 beta-galactosyltransferase accompanies rat parotid gland hypertrophy induced by changes in diet.

Maintenance of rats for 2 weeks on a diet consisting of 50% inert cellulose and 50% laboratory chow resulted in hypertrophy of the parotid gland and a 4-fold increase in total membrane-associated 4 beta-galactosyltransferase enzyme activity (EC 2.4.1.38). Localization of the increased specific activity to the cell surface of the enlarged gland was shown by subcellular fractionation of Golgi and plasma membranes. This observation was confirmed by enzyme assays of intact cells; quantification of immunofluorescence was made by using a fluorescence activated cell sorter. Parotid gland hypertrophy was inhibited by the administration of the specific modifier protein alpha-lactalbumin as well as by a monospecific antibody for 4 beta-galactosyltransferase. These agents also inhibited the incorporation of thymidine into DNA.