Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase in silkworm. Separation and characterization of multiple forms of the enzyme.

The existence of two forms of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase (3',5'-cyclic AMP 5'-nucleotidohydrolase, EC 3.1.4.17) was demonstrated in silkworm larvae by kinetic analysis and DEAE-cellulose column chromatography. The two forms of the enzyme (phosphodiesterase II and III) differ apparently in their characteristics from the previously reported cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (phosphodiesterase I) of silkworm. The higher K-m form (phosphodiesterase II) has a molecular weight of approx. 50 000 and optimum pH of 7.8, and requires Mn-2-+ for maximum activity. The lower K-m form (phosphodiesterase III) has a molecular weight of approx. 97 000 and optimum pH of 7.2, and requires Mg-2-+ for maximum activity. Phosphodiesterase II and probably phosphodiesterase III are specific enzymes for the hydrolysis of cyclic AMP.