Factors affecting induction of tyrosine aminotransferase in isolated rat liver cells.

1. The response of tyrosine aminotransferase activity in isolated liver cells has been studied under several conditions. 2. Activity is increased over a 5 h period by both glucagon and glucocorticoids in cells from adrenalectomized rats. The results do not support the view that glucagon action is dependent on preexposure of cells to steroid. 3. In cells from fed animals, significant stimulation is seen only when both glucagon and steroid are present together. 4. In cells from 48 h fasted rats steroid is effective, but glucagon is not significant so. 5. These anomalies are attributed to the differences in hormonal and nutritional status between the animals from which the cells are isolated.