A new vitamin K-dependent protein. A phospholipid-binding zymogen of a serine esterase

J Biol Chem. 1976 May 25;251(10):3052-6.

Abstract

Conclusive evidence is presented that a recently purified (Stenflo, J. (1976) J. Biol. Chem. 251, 355-363) vitamin K-dependent protein (arbitrarily referred to as Protein C) which is not related to prothrombin, Factors IX or X is also unrelated to Factor VII. It therefore appears to be a new, previously unrecognized vitamin K-dependent protein. In contrast to prothrombin, which binds to negatively charged phospholipid only in the presence of Ca2+ ions, Protein C, like the other vitamin K-dependent proteins, is a precursor of a serine esterase, presumably a protease, but it does not seem to be necessary for blood coagulation. Although the lipid-binding properties of Protein C may suggest that it is associated with membrane structures, its biological function remains unknown.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Blood Proteins*
  • Enzyme Precursors
  • Esterases*
  • Isoflurophate / metabolism
  • Phospholipids*
  • Protein Binding
  • Trypsin
  • Vitamin K / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Blood Proteins
  • Enzyme Precursors
  • Phospholipids
  • Vitamin K
  • Isoflurophate
  • Esterases
  • Trypsin