THE ARTICLE: High Molecular Weight Kininogen: A Review of the Structural Literature (International Journal of Molecular Sciences).
Kininogen is found in the blood of most vertebrates. It is also known to play a role in thrombosis and blood pressure regulation. However, to find out its exact mechanism of action, its structure description is needed, and this has not been achieved so far. However, a new research method can help.
Dr hab. Michał Ponczek explains:
To date, attempts to crystallize kininogen have failed, and very little is known about the shape of kininogen at an atomic level. New advancements in the field of cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) have enabled researchers to crack the structure of proteins that has been refractory to traditional crystallography techniques. High molecular weight kininogen is a good candidate for structural investigation by cryoEM. At the same time we are already aware of the fact that its role in causing cardiovascular diseases cannot be underestimated.
Another extremely important thread related to kininogen is its role in complications after Covid-19. Scientists already know that the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus causes an increased release of a substance called bradykinin, which kininogen is a source of. This release promotes the development of pneumonia, causing cough and fever, and in subsequent phases problems with blood clotting.
Dr hab. Michał Ponczek says:
The emerging thrombotic complications related to COVID-19 infection indicate the need for research in the blood coagulation system.
Understanding the structure of kininogen is important for a better understanding of the changes and processes it undergoes not only in a physiological state, but also in pathological situations like thrombotic disorders accompanying various civilization and infectious diseases, with the activation of the immune system, inflammation and coagulation.
Source: dr hab. Michał Ponczek
Edit: Promotion Centre, UL