The annexin family of calcium-binding proteins is composed of at least ten mammalian genes. It is characterized by a conserved core domain which binds to phospholipids in a Calcium dependent manner and a unique amino terminal region which may confer binding specificity. Annexin family members have been implicated as regulators of such diverse processes as ion flux, endocytosis and exocytosis, and cellular adhesion. Annexin V is ubiquitously expressed at high levels in tissues and cells grown in culture.
