Catechol-O-methyl transferase activity in human mononuclear cells.

Catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) activity was investigated in human peripheral mononuclear cells and in human lymphoblastoid cells lines. In any case, we have detected enzymatic activity in the membrane fraction of the cells. Km was found to be 4-9 10(-6) M and the enzyme was inhibited by tropolone and the lack of magnesium. The eventual association of COMT with adrenergic receptor-adenylate cyclase system in mononuclear cells is discussed.