Localization of a prostaglandin F2alpha receptor in bovine Corpus luteum plasma membranes

Abstract

The distribution of a prostaglandin F2alpha receptor in various subcellular fractions from bovine corpora lutea obtained by differential and gradient centrifugation paralleled very closely the distribution in these fractions of 5'-nucleotidase, a marker enzyme for plasma membranes. The fractions most enriched in the receptor and 5'-nucleotidase were relatively free of mitochondria and lysosomes but were contaminated to some extent by elements of the endoplasmic reticulum. From these results it can be concluded that the prostaglandin F2alpha receptor is localized on the plasma membranes of the corpus luteum cells. A simple method is described for the purification of plasma membranes from bovine corpora lutea by differential centrifugation.