Protein Z (PROZ)

Protein Z is a member of the coagulation cascade, the group of blood proteins that leads to the formation of blood clots. It is vitamin K-dependent, and its functionality is therefore impaired in warfarin therapy. It is a glycoprotein. Structural analysis of protein Z will allow better understanding of its function. From a Ramachandran plot, the secondary structure of Protein Z was determined. The Ramachandran plot utilizes mathematical equations to determine the possible angles of the amino acids within the primary sequence of Protein Z. The possible angles results in a plot of possible secondary structures. The Ramachandran plot for protein Z indicates it will form alpha helices. The final structure, all aphla domain, was determined by x-ray diffraction. It consists of chain A and B, which are both helix-loop-helix motifs.