[Effect of ionizing radiation on the structure of human serum albumin. Effect of irradiation on the content of free amino groups and on the ability of HSA to be digested by proteinases].

The effect of gamma-quanta on human serum albumin (HSA) solutions (1.6 mg/ml, borate buffer pH 7.45) in the air has been investigated. Using 2,4,6-trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid it has been shown that 2-22 kGy radiation reduces the free amino groups content of HSA and increases its resistance to the hydrolytic effect of trypsin and pronase which is not influenced by the postirradiation exposure to heat. It is concluded that epsilon-NH2-groups of lysine residues are modified and firm cross-links are formed in HSA under the effect of radiation.