Reverse transcriptase from avian myeloblastosis virus

Abstract

From lots of 20 to 30 g of avian myeloblastosis virus RNA-dependent DNA polymerase was obtained in preparations of purity greater than 95% by using a two-step column chromatographic procedure employing DEAE (DE 52) and carboxymethylcellulose (CM 52.). Yields of RNA-dependent DNA polymerase varied from approximately 20,000 to 35,000 U/g of virus. Specific activity of the enzyme was about 35,000 to 60,000 U/mg of protein. Free of detectable RNase activity, the product exhibited a molecular weight of about 160,000, an isoelectric point of 6.5, and approximately 2 mol of fatty acid per mol of enzyme.