We have examined the localization of P450scc in different tissues of the mollusc Mytilus galloprovincialis along a gonadal cycle by using a polyclonal antibody against rat cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (cytochrome P450scc). Immunoreactivity specific for P450scc was found only in the cytoplasm of basophilic cells from digestive gland; gonad, gills and kidney appeared to be devoid of P450scc immunoreactivity. SDS-gel electrophoresis and western blot analysis of different subcellular fractions revealed that this protein is mainly located in microsomes, has a molecular weight of 51.4 kDa and is recognized by the antibody against rat P450scc. These results suggest that the digestive gland of Mytilus galloprovincialis could be considered a steroidogenic tissue where the first step in biosynthesis of steroid hormones occurs. Moreover seasonal slot blot analysis of post-mitochondrial fractions showed a P450scc induction by available nutrients and phytoplankton blooms.
Autor:
Alonso Martínez A.,Ruiz Muñ?oz Y., San Juan Serrano F., Molist García P.
Referencia:
Journal of Comparative Physiology. Part B
Volumen:
178
Pagina Inicial:
647
Pagina final:
659
Editorial:
Springer-Verlag
Lugar:
Berlin-Heidelberg