A GEL MODEL FOR THE FUNCTIONING OF LUCIFERASE IN THE CELL

A gel model for the functioning of luciferase in cells has been constr ucted using bacterial NADH:FMN-oxidoreductase and luciferase immobiliz ed in starch gel disks. The characteristics of the immobilized lucifer ase depend on the duration of drying, the amount and concentration of the gel, the nature of the support used for drying, and the properties of the initial enzyme preparation. Functionally important enzyme grou ps remain intact in the immobilized preparation, and luciferase retain s its high specificity with respect to aldehydes. The gel microenviron ment appears to be optimal for luciferase, judging from its high activ ity and increased stability. Conditions allowing repeated use of the p reparation have been found. The approach permits co-immobilization of luciferase with other enzymes and their substrates. The error in biolu minescence measurements using the disks is 5-10%. A procedure for stab ilization of the immobilized luciferase during repeated use has been d evised.