Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A

src: bmjopen.bmj.com

Pappalysin-1, also known as pregnancy-associated plasma protein A, is a protein encoded by the PAPPA gene in humans. PAPPA is a secreted protease whose main substrate is insulin-like growth factor binding proteins. Pappalysin-1 is also used in screening tests for Down syndrome.

Video Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A

Function

This gene encodes a secreted metalloproteinase which cleaves insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs). PAPPA's proteolytic function is activated upon collagen binding. It is thought to be involved in local proliferative processes such as wound healing and bone remodeling. Low plasma level of this protein has been suggested as a biochemical marker for pregnancies with aneuploid fetuses (fetuses with an abnormal number of chromosomes). For example, low PAPPA may be commonly seen in prenatal screening for Down syndrome. Low levels may alternatively predict issues with the placenta, resulting in adverse complications such as intrauterine growth restriction, preeclampsia, placental abruption, premature birth, or fetal death.

Maps Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A

Interactions

Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A has been shown to interact with Major basic protein.

src: www.onlinejacc.org

References

src: media.springernature.com

Further reading

src: www.onlinejacc.org

External links

• The MEROPS online database for peptidases and their inhibitors: M43.004

Source of the article : Wikipedia