Immunocytochemical demonstration of intracytoplasmic alkaline phosphatase in HeLa TCRC-1 cells.

The ultrastructural localization of alkaline phosphatase has been examined in cells of a HeLa subline (TCRC-1) that are monophenotypic for Regan isoenzyme expression. Enzyme activity was demonstrated at the cell surface plasma membrane and in certain lysosomes as revealed by the lead citrate method. The regular direct immunoperoxidase procedure utilizing antibodies in IgG or Fab' form showed the same distribution patterns of alkaline phosphatase. However, when the cell surface antigen was blocked in advance with specific unlabeled antibodies and direct immunocytochemistry performed in the presence of saponin, intracellular alkaline phosphatase antigen was observed in the perinuclear space, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus. The results appeared to be concordant with the current concept that membrane glycoproteins are formed in the endoplasmic reticulum, modified in the Golgi apparatus and then transported to the cell surface. Intracellular alkaline phosphatase was observed predominantly in some cell populations especially mitotic cells, suggesting that the enzyme protein was synthesized in and around the mitotic phase. Accordingly, this technique of differential membrane immunocytochemistry appears to provide an opportunity to follow ectopic gene expression as a function of cell cycle and enzyme induction.