Nature of lectin‐induced alteration of potassium transfer in Ehrlich ascites tumor cells

The way in which the lectins concanavalin A (Con A) and Ricinus communis agglutinin (Ricin) alter the K + content of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells was investigated. Unidirectional and net fluxes were determined in unwashed cells during a time course following lectin addition. Total influx, ouabain sensitive influx, Mg ++ ‐ and Na + ‐K + ‐ATPase activity were all unaffected. Cell ATP content was normal for at least 19 minutes after exposure to Con A. Early after contact with Ricin or Con A efflux was stimulated 2‐3‐fold, resulting in net K + loss, but after 20 minutes efflux had returned to normal. Ricin and Con A acted similarly although Ricin was present at only 1/50 the concentration of Con A. When the findings are evaluated together with previous work it is suggested that a particular membrane glycoprotein may be concerned in the efflux alteration observed.