Natural proteinaceous inhibitors of serine proteases

Curr Pharm Des. 2013;19(6):1068-84.

Abstract

The deregulated proteolysis is associated with various diseases in humans. Proteases are commonly regarded as the therapeutic targets. Almost one-third of all proteolytic enzymes in humans are serine proteases. This work provides a brief characteristic of the proteinaceous natural inhibitors, mostly of serine proteases. The examples of some classical and recently identified canonical and noncanonical inhibitors as well as serpins are described. Their actual and potential therapeutic applications are discussed.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Products / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Serine Proteases / chemistry*
  • Serine Proteases / metabolism
  • Serine Proteinase Inhibitors / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Biological Products
  • Serine Proteinase Inhibitors
  • Serine Proteases