Positively charged proteins

Positively charged proteins, also known as cationic proteins, are a broad class of proteins characterized by a high isoelectric point (pI) due to an abundance of basic amino acids such as arginine and lysine [1]. This category includes diverse molecules such as histones, which package DNA, and eosinophil-derived proteins like Eosinophil Cationic Protein (ECP) and Major Basic Protein (MBP), which play roles in the immune response against parasites but can also cause tissue damage in allergic diseases like asthma [2]. Because of their strong positive charge, these proteins interact electrostatically with negatively charged molecules, including cell surface glycosaminoglycans and nucleic acids [3]. In a therapeutic context, polyanionic drugs like heparin are often used to neutralize the toxic effects of certain cationic proteins or to interfere with their biological signaling [4]. However, 'positively charged proteins' is considered a descriptive category rather than a specific, well-defined therapeutic target for drug development [5]. [1] Alberts B, et al. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 4th edition. New York: Garland Science; 2002. [2] Rothenberg ME, Hogan SP. 'The eosinophil.' Annu Rev Immunol. 2006;24:147-74. [3] Xu J, et al. 'Extracellular histones are major mediators of death in sepsis.' Nat Med. 2009;15(11):1318-21. [4] 'Heparin Sodium.' FDA Label / DailyMed. [5] 'Protamine Sulfate.' StatPearls [Internet].

Other names

Cationic proteinsBasic proteinsPolycationic proteins

Electrostatic neutralization and sequestration of cationic charges to inhibit biological activity or toxicity.