Human granzymes: related but far apart

Abstract

Granzymes (GZMs) are a class of serine protease, found in cytoplasmic granules of cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells. The main function of these proteins has been recognized as wiping out viral infections via inducing the apoptosis. This review will highlight inter and intra species differences of GZMs in terms of their functional and structure. These futures may help to device a strategy for isolation of human specific GZMs, which are needed for understating of their role in immune system and devising an effective immune therapy.