Monkey SRS-A

Abstract

In the present study it was shown that SRS-A, as well as histamine, is released on allergen challenge of fragments of monkey skin passively sensitized with human ragweed allergic serum. Some parameters of SRS-A and histamine release from skin fragments were compared with those of lung. By filtration through Biogel P-2 in aqueous medium it was demonstrated that SRS-A released from lung or skin fragments exists as a molecular size species of about 1,000 daltons, some of which is reversibly bound to macromolecular component(s). On the other hand, SRS-A sieved through Sephadex LH-20 in 80% ethanol had a molecular weight of 350–400 daltons. A comparison was made of the gel filtration properties of SRS-A and several prostaglandins in both gel-solvent systems. The results suggested that 350–400 daltons may closely approximate the actual molecular weight of monkey SRS-A.