CATALYSIS BY POLY-L-LYSINE OF AMINOLYSIS OF PENICILLIN BY TRIS(HYDROXYMETHYL)AMINOMETHANE

The rate of penicillin loss in solutions containing both poly-L-lysine (PLL) and Tris in the pH range 7-9 is much more rapid than with either Tris or PLL alone. The rate is directly proportional to PLL concentration at low concentrations of PLL but becomes independent of Tris at high concentrations of the latter. Evidence is presented to show that the reaction taking place is aminolysis of penicillin by Tris catalyzed by PLL. Based on these results a mechanism is proposed which involves complex formation between PLL and penicillin prior in attack by Tris. This reaction may be a model for aminolysis of penicillin in vivo, leading to formation of antigen involved in penicillin allergy. © 1969, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.