Related Experiment Videos
Characterization of an almost full-length cDNA coding for human blood coagulation factor X
Summary
Researchers identified the complete amino acid sequence of human factor X, a key protein in blood clotting. This discovery reveals its precursor form and similarities to bovine factor X, aiding in understanding coagulation disorders.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Factor X is a crucial coagulation factor in the blood clotting cascade.
- Understanding the structure of human Factor X is essential for diagnosing and treating bleeding disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the complete amino acid sequence of human Factor X.
- To elucidate the synthesis pathway and structural similarities between human and bovine Factor X.
Main Methods:
- Screening of a human liver cDNA library using a bovine Factor X cDNA probe.
- Colony hybridization technique to identify positive clones.
- DNA sequence analysis of overlapping cDNA clones.
Main Results:
- Identified overlapping DNA fragments coding for human Factor X mRNA.
- Predicted the complete amino acid sequence of plasma Factor X.
- Proposed a precursor form with linked light and heavy chains and an N-terminal leader peptide.
- Observed high sequence identity in functional regions (calcium-binding, catalytic) between human and bovine Factor X.
Conclusions:
- The complete amino acid sequence of human Factor X has been predicted.
- Human Factor X is synthesized as a preproprotein.
- Structural similarities in key regions suggest conserved function between human and bovine Factor X.