Properties of Na, K-ATPase from the salivary glands of the ixodid tick Amblyomma hebraeum

Abstract

Tick (Amblyomma hebraeum) salivary glands are a rich source of Na,K-ATPase (EC 3.6.1.3), the fundamental properties of which are similar to those of Na,K-ATPases from other sources. Inhibition of the enzyme by ouabain is quantitatively similar to the inhibition of fluid secretion by this drug. Harmaline at high concentrations also inhibited the Na,K-ATPase. The nucleotides GTP, ITP, and UTP were utilized as substrates, but all were less effective than ATP. Noradrenaline, dopamine, and phenoxybenzamine, all at concentrations known to influence fluid secretion in vitro, had no effect on enzyme activity.