Degradation of human factor X by human polymorphonuclear leucocyte cathepsin G and elastase

Cathepsin G and elastase from human polymorphonuclear leucocytes were used in vitro to digest human factor X. Clotting assays showed that both proteinases affected a rapid loss in the coagulant activity of factor X. Calcium ions almost totally protected the coagulant activity of factor X against the action of cathepsin G but not elastase. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (in nonreducing conditions and in the presence of SDS) indicated that the proteolytic action of cathepsin G led to the removal of a peptide of low molecular mass (pX) with the consequent formation of a single stable high molecular mass product (PX). SDS electrophoresis (under reducing conditions and in the presence of SDS) indicated that a pX was derived from the light chain of factor X. The proteolytic action of elastase led to the formation of numerous degradation products. Analysis of the products generated by the action of cathepsin G indicated that cathepsin G cleaved position Phe40:Trp41 in the light chain of factor X. In the presence of citrated plasma, cathepsin G but not elastase, was responsible for a loss in coagulant activity.