Aminopeptidases and angiogenesis

Endothelium. 2003;10(6):287-90. doi: 10.1080/10623320390272334.

Abstract

A number of proteases, including matrix metalloproteinases and plasminogen activators, have been shown to be involved in angiogenesis. In addition, recent reports suggest that aminopeptidases also play roles in angiogenesis. These peptidases regulate the N-terminal modification of proteins and peptides required in processes such as maturation, activation, or degradation, and thereby they are related to a variety of physiological and pathological processes. At least three aminopeptidases are reported to be involved in angiogenesis, namely, type 2 methionine aminopeptidase, aminopeptidase N, and adipocyte-derived leucine aminopeptidase/puromycin-insensitive leucyl-specific aminopeptidase. This review will focus on the possible role of these aminopeptidases in angiogenesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aminopeptidases / classification
  • Aminopeptidases / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • CD13 Antigens / metabolism
  • Endothelium, Vascular / enzymology
  • Humans
  • Leucyl Aminopeptidase / metabolism
  • Methionyl Aminopeptidases
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic*

Substances

  • Aminopeptidases
  • Leucyl Aminopeptidase
  • Methionyl Aminopeptidases
  • CD13 Antigens