A Guide to Zona Pellucida Domain Proteins

Focuses on the great diversity of zona pellucida domain (ZPD) proteins in mammalian and non-mammalian animal species and the roles of ZPD proteins in biology

A ZPD is present in proteins that constitute the extracellular coats of mammalian and non-mammalian eggs, as well as in hundreds of other extracellular proteins found in multicellular organisms. ZPD mutations can result in Crohn’s disease, deafness, cancer, or infertility.

A Guide to Zona Pellucida Domain Proteins provides a clear, comprehensive presentation of key features of ZPD proteins, from their structure and function to their evolution. Features include:

• A description of the synthesis and structure of mouse ZP proteins, prototypical ZPD proteins, followed by a description of ZPD structure and function, evolution of ZPD proteins, and use of mammalian ZP proteins as anti-fertility vaccines
• A survey of ZP proteins in mammals, from monotremes to placental mammals
• A survey of ZPD proteins in mammals, from platypus to human beings
• A survey of ZPD proteins in non-mammals, from jellyfish to birds
• References and Summary Tables of comparative data on ZPD proteins
• Appendix with Tables of comparative data on mammalian and non-mammalian ZPD proteins

Written with advanced undergraduate students, graduate students, and practicing scientists in mind, the Guide should be useful to anyone interested in learning about or working on ZPD proteins.