Endothelial protein C receptor

Endothelial Protein C Receptor (EPCR) is a type of protein that is primarily expressed on the surface of endothelial cells. It plays a crucial role in the protein C pathway, which is an important part of the body's anticoagulation system.

Structure

EPCR is a type I transmembrane protein, which means it has a single transmembrane domain. The extracellular domain of the protein is responsible for binding to protein C and activated protein C (APC). The cytoplasmic tail of the protein is short and does not have any known signaling motifs.

Function

The main function of EPCR is to bind to protein C and APC. This binding enhances the activation of protein C by the thrombin-thrombomodulin complex. Once activated, protein C has anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective effects.

EPCR also plays a role in the inflammatory response. It can bind to factor VIIa and factor Xa, which are involved in the coagulation cascade. This binding can lead to the activation of protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1), which can have pro-inflammatory effects.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the EPCR gene can lead to an increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Additionally, EPCR has been implicated in several diseases, including sepsis, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.

In sepsis, the levels of soluble EPCR in the blood can be increased, which can lead to an increased risk of death. In cancer, EPCR can promote tumor growth and metastasis. In autoimmune diseases, EPCR can modulate the immune response and contribute to disease progression.

See also

• Protein C
• Activated protein C
• Endothelial cells
• Anticoagulation
• Inflammatory response
• Venous thromboembolism
• Sepsis
• Cancer
• Autoimmune diseases