Protein C

Protein C is a vitamin K-dependent serine protease that, when activated, plays an important role in regulating anticoagulation, inflammation, cell death, and maintaining the permeability of blood vessel walls in the human body.

Structure

Protein C is a two-chain structure: a light chain and a heavy chain, which are connected by a disulfide bond. The light chain contains two EGF-like modules and the heavy chain contains the catalytic serine protease domain.

Function

The primary function of Protein C is its role in the anticoagulation pathway. It is activated by thrombin into activated Protein C (APC). APC in turn inactivates Factor V and Factor VIII, which are proteins that promote clotting. By doing so, Protein C plays a crucial role in controlling blood clot formation.

Clinical significance

Deficiency of Protein C can lead to an increased risk of forming dangerous blood clots (thrombosis). This can result in conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), or stroke. On the other hand, an excess of Protein C can lead to a risk of bleeding (hemorrhage).

Genetics

The PROS1 gene provides instructions for making Protein C. This gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 2 at position 13.3, specifically from base pair 73,147,768 to base pair 73,160,805.

See also

• Protein S
• Protein Z
• Anticoagulant
• Coagulation