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Published on: January 7, 2019
Is EPCR a multi-ligand receptor? Pros and cons
Ramón Montes1, Cristina Puy, Eva Molina
1Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Laboratory of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Centre for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain. rmontes@unav.es
Thrombosis and Haemostasis
|February 10, 2012
Summary
The endothelial cell protein C receptor (EPCR) is crucial for activated protein C (APC) functions beyond blood clotting. New research reveals EPCR also binds factors VII/VIIa and Xa, expanding its known roles in cell signaling and inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Medicine
Background:
- Endothelial cell protein C receptor (EPCR) was initially known for enhancing protein C (PC) activation in hemostasis.
- Activated protein C (APC) exhibits cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, with EPCR essential for these actions.
- EPCR's role extends beyond PC/APC, interacting with other coagulation factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a comprehensive overview of EPCR's functions.
- To highlight EPCR's extended ligand interactions beyond protein C.
- To explore the implications of EPCR binding to factors VII/VIIa and Xa.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on EPCR and its ligands.
- Analysis of existing data on EPCR-mediated cell signaling.
- Compilation of information on EPCR interactions with PC/APC, FVII/VIIa, and FXa.
Main Results:
- EPCR is vital for APC's non-hemostatic functions, bridging coagulation and inflammation.
- Factor VII/VIIa and factor Xa (FXa) have been identified as novel EPCR ligands.
- These interactions suggest new, previously unsuspected roles for EPCR.
Conclusions:
- EPCR plays a multifaceted role in biological processes.
- EPCR's interactions with FVII/VIIa and FXa open new avenues for research.
- Understanding EPCR's expanded ligand repertoire is key to deciphering its roles in health and disease.
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