Properties of the major Zn²⁺-binding site of human alpha-fetoprotein, a potential foetal plasma zinc carrier.

ABSTRACT: The foetal plasma protein α-fetoprotein (AFP) harbours a high-affinity zinc binding site that is likely involved in transport and delivery of essential zinc during foetal development. Based on a recent electron microscopy structure of AFP and aided by biophysical studies on an AFP-derived peptide, we present a refined 5-coordinate model for this site.

SUBMITTER: Lu J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11726181 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature