IMMUNOLOCALIZATION OF CYTOCHROMES P-450OLF1 AND P-450OLF2 IN RAT OLFACTORY MUCOSA

Previously, we described two olfactory-specific cytochromes P-450: rat cytochrome P-450olf1 (IIG1), identified by cDNA cloning, and bovine cytochrome P-450olf2 (IIA), identified by peptide microsequencing of a transmembranal polypeptide (p52). Here we describe the preparation of polyclonal antisera against peptide sequences of these proteins and their use in the immunolocalization of cytochromes P-450olf1 and P-450olf2 in rat olfactory mucosa. Immunoreactivities related to both enzymes are found in the subepithelial Bowman's glands of olfactory mucosa. Practically no immunoreactivity was found in other rat tissues, including liver, lung, kidney and respiratory mucosa. In addition, double-labeling experiments demonstrated that cytochromes P-450olf1 and P-450olf2 are present in the same population of Bowman's glands. The olfactory-specific localization of cytochromes P-450olf1 and P-450olf2 is consistent with a role for these enzymes in the modification or clearance of odorants from the chemosensory tissue.