Evidence for multiple lipase forms in the rabbit pancreas.

Evidence is presented of the existence of at least two forms of lipase (A and B) in homogenized rabbit pancreas. These forms are separated by means of gel filtration and anion-exchange chromatography. Both forms are colipase-dependent, but lipase A is activated to a significant extent by 140 mmol/l NaCl even in the absence of the protein cofactor. Lipase A exhibits greater affinity towards emulsified triolein than does lipase B, as evidenced by the respective apparent Km values. Lipase B appears to be more colipase-dependent and resembles more closely the 'pancreatitis' lipase of human plasma. Form B is to be preferred as internal standard in turbidimetric and nephelometric indirect lipase assays.