Two distinct adenosine-sensitive sites on adenylate cyclase.

The effects of adenosine and adenosine analogs on adenylate cyclases from several tissues have been examined. Two adenosine-reactive sites have been identified: (i) the "R" site, occupancy of which usually leads to activation of cyclase and which requires integrity of the ribose ring for activity, and (ii) the "P" site, which mediates inhibition and requires integrity of the purine ring for activity. Biphasic effects of adenosine are explained by the presence of both sites on a single adenylate cyclase. Comparison of these data with those in the literature indicates that adenosine-reactive "P" and "R" sites are present generally.