Anti-PZP antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

PZP also known as Pregnancy Zone Protein is a critical glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 360 kDa. It is mainly expressed in the liver but also found in the blood plasma particularly during pregnancy. PZP is similar in structure to alpha-2-macroglobulin and functions by inhibiting proteases. This protein binds and inactivates various proteinases showing its role in modulating enzymatic activity in the bloodstream.

Biological function summary

PZP contributes to immune response modulation during pregnancy by forming complexes with proteinases. These complexes prevent the degradation of other proteins helping to protect the fetus and maintain maternal immune tolerance. PZP exists as a tetramer in its active form allowing it to effectively trap and neutralize proteinases. Its expression levels rise significantly during pregnancy indicating its role in maternal adaptation.

Pathways

PZP is involved in the regulation of inflammation and the immune response. It participates in the acute phase response pathway which involves proteins like alpha-2-macroglobulin and C-reactive protein. By binding to various cytokines and growth factors PZP helps control inflammatory processes and cellular communication maintaining tissue homeostasis. These interactions show how PZP plays a role in protecting against excessive inflammation.

Associated diseases and disorders

Researchers have linked PZP to conditions like Alzheimer's disease and cancer. In Alzheimer's PZP might interact with amyloid-beta peptides similar to alpha-2-macroglobulin hinting at a protective role against plaque formation. In cancer PZP's interaction with proteases suggests a role in tumor progression and metastasis. Understanding these links could help in developing therapeutic strategies targeting protease activity in these diseases.