Determination of the bifunctional properties of high molecular weight kininogen by studies with monoclonal antibodies directed to each of its chains.

In normal human plasma two forms of kininogen exist, low molecular weight kininogen (LMWK) and high molecular weight kininogen (HMWK). When these proteins are cleaved they are found to have a common heavy chain and bradykinin, but each has a unique light chain. Monoclonal antibodies to the heavy and light chains of HMWK have been developed, and the effects of each on the function of this protein are defined.

High molecular weight kininogen binds to unstimulated platelets.

Studies were performed to determine if the unstimulated platelet membrane has a site for high molecular weight kininogen (HMWK) binding. 125I-HMWK bound to unstimulated platelets. Zn++ was required for 125I-HMWK binding to unstimulated platelets and binding was maximal at 50 microM Zn++.

High molecular weight kininogen is an inhibitor of platelet calpain.

Recent studies from our laboratory indicate that a high concentration of platelet-derived calcium-activated cysteine protease (calpain) can cleave high molecular weight kininogen (HMWK). On immunodiffusion and immunoblot, antiserum directed to the heavy chain of HMWK showed immunochemical identity with alpha-cysteine protease inhibitor--a major plasma inhibitor of tissue calpains. Studies were then initiated to determine whether purified or plasma HMWK was also an inhibitor of platelet calpain.