Background information
ZPI, also known as SERPINA10 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade A (alpha-1 antiproteinase, antitrypsin), member 10) or PZI, is a 444 amino acid secreted protein that functions as a Protein Z-dependent protease inhibitor. Expressed by the liver, ZPI is secreted into the plasma where, in the presence of calcium, Protein Z and phospholipids, it inhibits the activated pro-coagulation factors X and XI (Factor X and Factor XI). This inhibition helps properly regulate intravenous blood clotting. ZPI, a member of the serpin protein family, contains five potential N-linked glycosylation sites and a tyrosine at position 387 which, when disrupted, renders ZPI inactive. Defects in the gene encoding ZPI may increase susceptibility to venous thrombosis, the formation of blood clots within a vein.
