Effect of histones on the intracellular metabolism of ascorbic acid.

Basic proteins are able to control the intracellular metabolism of ascorbic acid in human erythrocytes. The stimulating effect of ascorbic acid expressed by means of cellular peroxidase reactions of intact erythrocytes depends on the ascorbic acid and basic protein concentrations as well as on the structure of the histone molecule. Leukocyte and calf thymus histones can stimulate the intracellular metabolism of ascorbic acid in human erythrocytes, in contrast to the protamines which show an inhibitory effect in the above mentioned intracellular peroxidase metabolic system.