Recombinant Proteins
Product List
ANXA5 Mouse
Annexin A5 Mouse Recombinant
ANXA6 Human
Annexin A6 Human Recombinant
ANXA7 Human
Annexin A7 Human Recombinant
ANXA8 Human
Annexin A8 Human Recombinant
ANXA8L1 Human
Annexin A8 Like-1 Human Recombinant
Introduction
Annexins are a family of calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding proteins found in eukaryotic organisms, including animals, plants, and fungi . These proteins are characterized by their ability to bind to negatively charged phospholipids in a calcium-dependent manner and contain a 70 amino acid repeat sequence known as the annexin repeat . In humans, there are twelve known annexins, labeled Annexin A1 to Annexin A13 (with A12 currently unassigned) .
Key Biological Properties: Annexins are involved in various cellular processes such as membrane scaffolding, vesicle trafficking, exocytosis, endocytosis, and calcium ion channel formation . They can bind to both endomembranes and the plasma membrane in a calcium-dependent or independent manner .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: Annexins are ubiquitously expressed in different tissues and cells. For instance, Annexin A1 is found in various tissues and plays a role in anti-inflammatory responses . Annexin A5 is widely distributed in human cells and body fluids, performing functions by binding to phosphatidylserine in a calcium-dependent manner .
Primary Biological Functions: Annexins play crucial roles in cellular processes such as cell adhesion, proliferation, apoptosis, and membrane organization . They are also involved in the trafficking and organization of vesicles, exocytosis, and endocytosis .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: Annexins, particularly Annexin A1, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and involvement in immune responses. They help regulate the immune system by modulating the behavior of immune cells . Annexin A5, for example, can protect cells and reduce adhesive properties, influencing immune cell actions .
Annexins interact with various cell-membrane components, participating in membrane organization and modulating cell signaling . They can bind to phosphatidylserine on cell membranes, forming a shield over membranes and neutralizing overexposure of phosphatidylserine . This interaction affects immune cell behavior and has anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, and cell membrane repair properties .
Transcriptional Regulation: Annexin expression is regulated at the transcriptional level by various factors, including glucocorticoids . For instance, glucocorticoids can increase the expression of Annexin A1, which in turn inhibits inflammation by blocking the release of arachidonic acid .
Post-Translational Modifications: Annexins can undergo post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, which can alter their affinity for calcium and interaction with cytoplasmic proteins . These modifications play a crucial role in regulating their activity and function.
Annexins have significant applications in biomedical research, including their use as diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies . For example, Annexin A5 is used as a biomarker for diagnosing certain diseases due to its ability to bind phosphatidylserine . Additionally, annexins are being explored for their therapeutic potential in treating conditions such as sepsis, COVID-19, and various cancers .
Throughout the life cycle, annexins play essential roles in development, aging, and disease . They are involved in processes such as cell cycle control, exocytosis, endocytosis, and apoptosis . Annexin A11, for instance, has a crucial role in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis by affecting apoptosis pathways . In plants, annexins are central regulators of growth and stress signaling, operating in pathways involving cytosolic free calcium and reactive oxygen species .
