Kunitz-type domain 2 (K2) of Ixolaris, and similar proteins
This model includes the second Kunitz-type domain (K2) of ixolaris from the venomous organism Conus striatus. Ixolaris is a potent tick salivary anticoagulant that binds coagulation factor Xa (FXa) and zymogen FX, and forms a quaternary tissue factor (TF)/FVIIa/FX(a)/Ixolaris inhibitory complex. It blocks TF-induced coagulation and PAR2 (proteinase-activated receptor 2) signaling, and prevents thrombosis, tumor growth, and immune activation. Ixolaris consists of 2 Kunitz domains (K1 and K2), both of which recognize the heparin-binding (pro)exosite (HBE) on FX. This model contains K2, an extraordinarily dynamic domain that encompasses several residues involved in FX binding. Its backbone plasticity is critical for ixolaris biological activity. This domain contains 2 disulfide bonds instead of the 3 typical of Kunitz domain proteins.