Thiol groups are involved in NADH-ascorbate free radical reductase activity of rat liver plasma membrane.

Plasma membranes purified by two-phase partition from rat liver showed an NADH-ascorbate free radical reductase activity of about 14 nmoles NADH oxidized/min/mg protein. This activity was inhibited by N-ethyl maleimide, iodoacetate and iodoacetamide, reagents that covalently block thiol groups. NADH-ascorbate free radical reductase was also inhibited by reduced glutathione and the inhibitions observed with blocking reagents and reduced compounds were additive. These results support the involvement of sulphydryl groups in NADH-AFR reductase and point out the idea that a balance between reduced sulfhydryls and oxidized disulfides is required for the optimal function of this activity, considered as part of the transplasma membrane electron transport system.