PAEP Antibody – Rabbit Polyclonal

This gene is a member of the kernel lipocalin superfamily whose members share relatively low sequence similarity but have highly conserved exon/intron structure and three-dimensional protein folding. Most lipocalins are clustered on the long arm of chromosome 9. The encoded glycoprotein has been previously referred to as pregnancy-associated endometrial alpha-2-globulin, placental protein 14, and glycodelin, but has been officially named progestagen-associated endometrial protein. Three distinct forms, with identical protein backbones but different glycosylation profiles, are found in amniotic fluid, follicular fluid and seminal plasma of the reproductive system. These glycoproteins have distinct and essential roles in regulating a uterine environment suitable for pregnancy and in the timing and occurrence of the appropriate sequence of events in the fertilization process. A number of alternatively spliced transcript variants have been observed at this locus, but the full-length nature of only two, each encoding the same protein, has been determined. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

Function: This protein is, quantitatively, the main protein synthesized and secreted in the endometrium from mid-luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and during the first semester of pregnancy.

Subunit structure: Homodimer.

Subcellular location: Secreted.

Post-translational modification: At least two differentially glycosylated forms are found. Glycodelin-A (GdA) (amniotic fluid) with contraceptive and immunosuppressive activities and glycodelin-S (Gds) (seminal plasma) whose role is not yet known. The gender-specific glycosylation may serve to regulate key process involved in human reproduction. Ref.10 Ref.11 Ref.12

Sequence similarities: Belongs to the calycin superfamily. Lipocalin family.

Sequence caution: The sequence AAA60147.1 differs from that shown. Reason: Erroneous initiation. The sequence CAB43305.1 differs from that shown. Reason: Erroneous initiation.