[Effect of histones on mouse liver mitochondria cytochrome oxidase activity in vitro and in vivo].

Histones at concentration of 2-10 micrograms/ml activated the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase and at concentration of 25 micrograms/ml and higher--inhibited the enzyme in vitro. Cytochrome oxidase was completely inactivated by histones at concentration of 100 mg/microliter and higher. After administration in vivo histones modified the reaction of liver mitochondria in response to the subsequent treatment with a non-ion detergent Triton X-100. Possible pathogenetic importance of the phenomena observed is discussed.