Proteases,with their extensive sources and remarkable characteristics such as high catalytic efficiency,substrate specificity,and species diversity,have long attracted widespread attention and are widely applied in va...Proteases,with their extensive sources and remarkable characteristics such as high catalytic efficiency,substrate specificity,and species diversity,have long attracted widespread attention and are widely applied in various fields including food processing,detergent production,pharmaceutical,and environmental protection;these enzymes can hydrolyze proteins into peptides and amino acids,thereby participating in crucial physiological activities like digestion and immune regulation,and playing an indispensable role in maintaining the health and daily life of organisms.Moreover,through artificial synthesis of the required proteases,it is possible to achieve efficient large-scale expression and production,which significantly reduces industrial costs,making them more economically viable in practical applications.This paper provides a comprehensive review of proteases,covering their classification,sources,structure-activity relationships,and industrial applications,and constructs a closed-loop analytical framework based on“basic characteristics,production technology,and practical application”to systematically organize and analyze the relevant information;in particular,it quantitatively compares the advantages and defects of expression systems using Escherichia coli,yeast,and Bacillus subtilis,which not only deepens the understanding of these systems but also provides valuable theoretical support for the rational selection of expression vectors in different scenarios,and introduces their development prospects in food,medicine,environmental protection,and related fields.The insights provided herein offer specific directions for future applied research on artificially engineered proteases.展开更多
Objective:Small cell lung cancer(SCLC)is commonly recognized as the most fatal lung cancer type.Despite substantial advances in immune checkpoint blockade therapies for treating solid cancers,their benefits are limite...Objective:Small cell lung cancer(SCLC)is commonly recognized as the most fatal lung cancer type.Despite substantial advances in immune checkpoint blockade therapies for treating solid cancers,their benefits are limited to a minority of patients with SCLC.In the present study,novel indicators for predicting the outcomes and molecular targets for SCLC treatment were elucidated.Methods:We conducted bioinformatics analysis to identify the key genes associated with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in SCLC.The functional role of the key gene identified in SCLC was determined both in vitro and in vivo.Results:A significant correlation was observed between patient survival and CD56dim natural killer(NK)cell proportion.Furthermore,we noted that the hub gene ubiquitin-specific protease 1(USP1)is closely correlated with both CD56dim NK cells and overall survival in SCLC.Bioinformatics analysis revealed that USP1 is upregulated in SCLC.In addition,gene set enrichment analysis revealed that USP1 overexpression hinders NK cell-mediated immune responses.By co-cultivating NK-92 cells with SCLC cells,we demonstrated that NK cell cytotoxicity against SCLC could be improved either via USP1 knock-down or pharmacological inhibition.Furthermore,using a nude-mice xenograft tumor model,we noted that USP1 inhibition effectively suppressed tumor proliferation and increased the expression of NK cell-associated markers.Conclusions:Our study findings highlight the importance of NK cells in regulating SCLC.USP1 overexpression can inhibit NK cell-mediated immunity;therefore,USP1 may serve not only as a prognostic biomarker but also as a potential molecular target of SCLC therapy.展开更多
The 3CL protease, a highly conserved enzyme in the coronavirus, plays a crucial role in the viral life cycle by facilitating viral replication through precise cleavage of polyproteins. Beyond its proteolytic function,...The 3CL protease, a highly conserved enzyme in the coronavirus, plays a crucial role in the viral life cycle by facilitating viral replication through precise cleavage of polyproteins. Beyond its proteolytic function, the 3CL protease also engages in intricate interactions with host cell proteins involved in critical cellular processes such as transcription, translation, and nuclear-cytoplasmic transport, effectively hijacking cellular machinery to promote viral replication. Additionally, it disrupts innate immune signaling pathways, suppresses interferon activity and cleaves antiviral proteins. Furthermore, it modulates host cell death pathways including pyroptosis and apoptosis, interferes with autophagy and inhibits stress granule formation to maintain viral infection and exacerbate viral pathogenesis. This review highlights the molecular mechanisms by which the 3CL protease orchestrates virus-host interactions, emphasizing its central role in coronavirus pathogenesis and highlighting potential therapeutic targets for future interventions.展开更多
Soybean meal(SBM)prepared by soybean crushing is the most popular protein source in the poultry and livestock industries(Cai et al.,2015)due to its economic manufacture,high protein content,and good nutritional value....Soybean meal(SBM)prepared by soybean crushing is the most popular protein source in the poultry and livestock industries(Cai et al.,2015)due to its economic manufacture,high protein content,and good nutritional value.Despite these benefits,SBM contains various antigen proteins such as glycinin andβ-conglycinin,which account for approximately 70%of the total proteins of the SBM and reduce digestibility and damage intestinal function(Peng et al.,2018).展开更多
Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED), caused by porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), is a highly contagious gastrointestinal disease characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, with mortality rates approaching...Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED), caused by porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), is a highly contagious gastrointestinal disease characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, with mortality rates approaching 100% among suckling piglets. The PEDV 3C-like protease (3CLpro) is essential for viral replication and regarded as a critical target for antiviral inhibitor development. In this study, we aimed to identify small-molecule inhibitors of PEDV by targeting 3CLpro. Virtual screening of 1.6 million compounds from the ChemDiv library identified four potential candidates. Molecular dynamics simulations, specifically analyzing RMSD, RMSF, and Rg, demonstrated increased structural stability of the compound-protease complexes compared to the monomeric enzyme. All compounds had low cytotoxicity in Vero cells (CC_(50) > 200 μM). Fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based assays demonstrated dose-dependent inhibitory activity of the compounds against 3CLpro. Among the candidates, compound F366-0161 exhibited the weakest inhibition, with an IC_(50) value of 151.5 μM. Two analogues, 3238-0395 (IC_(50) of 121.4 μM) and L878-0493 (IC_(50) of 123.6 μM), exhibited moderately enhanced activity. Y041-1672 was identified as the most effective inhibitor, with an IC_(50) of 86.48 μM. In viral replication inhibition assays, Y041-1672 reduced PEDV replication, with an EC_(50) of 17.97 μM and a selectivity index (SI) of 15.5 (CC_(50) /EC_(50) ). These results were validated by RT-qPCR, plaque assays, immunofluorescence, and Western blot analyses. In vitro validation confirmed Y041-1672 as the optimal antiviral candidate, and time-of-addition experiments indicated that inhibition primarily occurred during viral replication. This study identifies scaffold molecules for PEDV antiviral drug development, providing strategic insights for PED treatment.展开更多
Dengue viruses(DENV)have spread throughout the world and pose a huge threat to human life.The most widespread serotype is type 2 DENV(DENV 2),which has no specific treatment.NS2B-NS3 protease plays a pivotal role in D...Dengue viruses(DENV)have spread throughout the world and pose a huge threat to human life.The most widespread serotype is type 2 DENV(DENV 2),which has no specific treatment.NS2B-NS3 protease plays a pivotal role in DENV replication because of its function in cleavage of the viral polyprotein;thus,it is considered a promising target for antiviral discovery.In this study,we developed a high-throughput screening system based on the NS2B-NS3 protease to identify candidates from an FDA-approved drug library.Eltrombopag was screened out of 3273 drugs,and demonstrated inhibition on DENV 2 at the micromolar level in vitro,significantly reducing viral loads in the targeted organs of challenged mice following intraperitoneal injection.Further mechanistic analysis showed that eltrombopag allosterically binds to the DENV 2 NS2B-NS3 protease in a reversible,noncompetitive manner,therefore inhibiting DENV 2 at the post-infection stage.In addition,eltrombopag inhibited the NS2B-NS3 proteases of DENV 4 and Zika virus,suggesting its potential as a broadspectrum antiviral agent.This study repurposed eltrombopag as a promising antiviral agent against DENV,providing an alternative for antiviral development against flaviviruses.展开更多
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),the causative agent of novel coronavirus disease 2019,can cause acute respiratory symptoms and even death globally.However,the immune escape mechanism and vi...Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),the causative agent of novel coronavirus disease 2019,can cause acute respiratory symptoms and even death globally.However,the immune escape mechanism and viral pathogenesis remain poorly understood.Here,we report that the SARS-CoV-23C-like(3CL)protease specifically cleaves gasdermin D(GSDMD)at Q29 and Q193,producing two N-terminal fragments,GSDMD1-29 and GSDMD1-193.We also found that SARS-CoV-2 infection induced the cleavage of GSDMD.Then,we demonstrated that the ability to cleave GSDMD was dependent on the protease activity of the 3CL protease.Interestingly,unlike the GSDMD1-275 fragment cleaved by caspase-1,GSDMD1-29 and GSDMD1-193 did not trigger pyroptosis or inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication.Additionally,various RNA viral proteases display different preferences for cleaving GSDMD at Q29 and Q193.Our findings reveal a mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 and other RNA viruses inhibit pyroptosis,highlighting the critical role of the 3CL protease in immune evasion and viral replication.展开更多
Proteases are essential for homeostasis,and their primary function is proteolytic in extracellular and intracellular compartments.The deregulation of expression,abundance,and activity of proteases has been related to ...Proteases are essential for homeostasis,and their primary function is proteolytic in extracellular and intracellular compartments.The deregulation of expression,abundance,and activity of proteases has been related to several pathologies,including cancer.This deregulation contributes to their pro-tumorigenic activity since they participate in the degradation of extracellular matrix components and adhesion molecules,and the activation of growth factors.However,some proteases,such as ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 8 and kallikrein-related peptidases 5 and 10,have emerged as tumor suppressors due to their antitumoral actions in specific cancer contexts.In this article,we discuss the antitumoral effects of ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 8,kallikrein-related peptidases 5 and 10 that have been described to date,suggesting their potential use as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer.展开更多
Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the cardiac muscle and one of the primary causes of dilated cardiomyopathy.Group B coxsackievirus(CVB)is one of the leading causative pathogens of viral myocarditis,which prim...Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the cardiac muscle and one of the primary causes of dilated cardiomyopathy.Group B coxsackievirus(CVB)is one of the leading causative pathogens of viral myocarditis,which primarily affects children and young adults.Due to the lack of vaccines,the development of antiviral medicines is crucial to controlling CVB infection and the progression of myocarditis.In this study,we investigated the antiviral effect of baicalein,a flavonoid extracted from Scutellaria baicaleinsis.Our results demonstrated that baicalein treatment significantly reduced cytopathic effect and increased cell viability in CVB3-infected cells.In addition,significant reductions in viral protein 3D,viral RNA,and viral particles were observed in CVB3-infected cells treated with baicalein.We found that baicalein exerted its inhibitory effect in the early stages of CVB3 infection.Baicalein also suppressed viral replication in the myocardium and effectively alleviated myocarditis induced by CVB3 infection.Our study revealed that baicalein exerts its antiviral effect by inhibiting the activity of caspase-1 and viral protease 2A.Taken together,our findings demonstrate that baicalein has antiviral activity against CVB3 infection and may serve as a potential therapeutic option for the myocarditis caused by enterovirus infection.展开更多
Dry-cured meat products are considerably popular around the world due to unique flavor.Proteolysis is one of the enzymatic reactions from which flavor substances are derived,which is affected by endogenous proteases.T...Dry-cured meat products are considerably popular around the world due to unique flavor.Proteolysis is one of the enzymatic reactions from which flavor substances are derived,which is affected by endogenous proteases.The purpose aimed to reveal the potential relationship between endogenous proteases and key flavor substances in dry-cured pork coppa in this paper.The dynamic changes of endogenous proteases activity,free amino acids,and volatiles during dry-cured pork coppa processing were characterized.The results showed that 5 kinds of free amino acids,Glu,Lys,Val,Ala,and Leu,were identified as significant contributors to taste.Meanwhile,key volatiles,such as hexanal,nonanal,octanal,benzaldehyde,3-methyl butanoic acid,2-methyl propanoic acid,and ethyl octanoate,greatly contributed to the flavor characteristics of dry-cured pork coppa.Further partial correlation analysis was performed to better elucidate the relationship among parameters.The results revealed that close relationship between endogenous proteases and key substances.RAP not only significantly affected the accumulation of key active-amino acids,but also affected the accumulation of ethyl octanoate,2,3-pentanedione,and 2,3-octanedione by regulating the accumulation of octanoic acid and Leu.In addition,cathepsin B and D,DPP II,DPP IV and RAP notably affected accumulation of hexanal.展开更多
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is one very usual tumor together with higher death rate.Ubiquitin-specific protease 21(USP21)has been confirmed to take part into the regulation of CRC progression through serving as a...BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is one very usual tumor together with higher death rate.Ubiquitin-specific protease 21(USP21)has been confirmed to take part into the regulation of CRC progression through serving as a facilitator.Interestingly,the promotive function of USP21 has also discovered in the progression of CRC.ZEB1 has illustrated to be modulated by USP7,USP22 and USP51 in cancers.However,the regulatory functions of USP21 on ZEB1 in CRC progression need more invest-igations.AIM To investigate the relationship between USP21 and ZEB1 in CRC progression.METHODS The mRNA and protein expressions were assessed through RT-qPCR,western blot and IHC assay.The interaction between USP21 and ZEB1 was evaluated through Co-IP and GST pull down assays.The cell proliferation was detected through colony formation assay.The cell migration and invasion abilities were determined through Transwell assay.The stemness was tested through sphere formation assay.The tumor growth was evaluated through in vivo mice assay.RESULTS In this work,USP21 and ZEB1 exhibited higher expression in CRC,and resulted into poor prognosis.Moreover,the interaction between USP21 and ZEB1 was further investigated.It was demonstrated that USP21 contributed to the stability of ZEB1 through modulating ubiquitination level.In addition,USP21 streng-thened cell proliferation,migration and stemness through regulating ZEB1.At last,through in vivo assays,it was illustrated that USP21/ZEB1 axis aggravated tumor growth.CONCLUSION For the first time,these above findings manifested that USP21 promoted tumorigenicity and stemness of CRC by deubiquitinating and stabilizing ZEB1.This discovery suggested that USP21/ZEB1 axis may provide novel sights for the treatment of CRC.展开更多
Understanding interactions between viruses and their hosts is conducive to enabling better application of viruses as biocontrol agents.Certain viruses carried by parasitic wasps enhance the parasitic efficiency of was...Understanding interactions between viruses and their hosts is conducive to enabling better application of viruses as biocontrol agents.Certain viruses carried by parasitic wasps enhance the parasitic efficiency of wasp-larvae by protecting them against the immune system of their Lepidopteran host.However,the relationship between prey pests and viruses found in predatory natural enemies remains unclear.Herein,we report the interaction between Arma chinensis virus-1(AcV-1),originally isolated from a predatory natural enemy,Arma chinensis(Hemiptera:Pentatomidae),and one of its prey species,Spodoptera frugiperda(Lepidoptera:Noctuidae).The results showed that the AcV-1 virus appeared harmful to the novel host S.frugiperda by inhibiting larval diet consumption and increasing pupal mortality.Meanwhile,sequencing data indicated that the virus altered the gene expression profiles of S.frugiperda.KEGG analysis showed that the proteasome and phagosome pathways related to protein degradation and immune response were significantly enriched.Although the expression levels of digestive enzyme genes did not change significantly,the total protease activity of AcV-1 virus-positive individuals was significantly decreased,suggesting that the virus inhibited diet consumption of S.frugiperda via the down-regulation of digestive enzyme activities.These results indicate that a virus initially isolated in a predatory natural enemy can decrease the fitness of its prey species.The virus was found to impact the host proteasome and phagosome pathways related to protein degradation and immunity,providing a potential mechanism to enhance controlling efficiency.展开更多
The spike protein(S)of SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for viral attachment and entry,thus a major factor for host suscep-tibility,tissue tropism,virulence and pathogenicity.The S is divided with S1 and S2 region,and the S1...The spike protein(S)of SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for viral attachment and entry,thus a major factor for host suscep-tibility,tissue tropism,virulence and pathogenicity.The S is divided with S1 and S2 region,and the S1 contains the receptor-binding domain(RBD),while the S2 contains the hydrophobic fusion domain for the entry into the host cell.Numerous host proteases have been implicated in the activation of SARS-CoV-2 S through various c leavage sites.In this article,we review host proteases including furin,trypsin,transmembrane protease serine 2(TMPRSS2)and cathepsins in the activation of SARS-CoV-2 S.Many betacoronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2 have polybasic residues at the S1/S2 site which is subjected to the cleavage by furin.The S1/S2 cleavage facilitates more assessable RBD to the receptor ACE2,and the binding triggers further conformational changes and exposure of the S2'site to proteases such as type Il transmembrane serine proteases(TTPRs)including TMPRSS2.In the presence of TMPRSS2 on the target cells,SARS-CoV-2 can utilize a direct entry route by fusion of the viral envelope to the cellular membrane.In the absence of TMPRSS2,SARS-CoV-2 enter target cells via endosomes where multiple cathepsins cleave the S for the successful entry.Additional host proteases involved in the cleavage of the S were discussed.This article also includes roles of 3C-like protease inhibitors which have inhibitory activity against cathepsin L in the entry of SARS-CoV-2,and discussed the dual roles of such inhibitors in virus replication.展开更多
BACKGROUND Recent advancements in biliary tract cancer(BTC)treatment have expanded beyond surgery to include adjuvant therapy,yet the prognosis remains poor.Identifying prognostic biomarkers could enhance the assessme...BACKGROUND Recent advancements in biliary tract cancer(BTC)treatment have expanded beyond surgery to include adjuvant therapy,yet the prognosis remains poor.Identifying prognostic biomarkers could enhance the assessment of patients who have undergone radical resection for BTC.AIM To determine transmembrane serine protease 4(TMPRSS4)utility as a prognostic biomarker of radical resection for BTC.METHODS Medical records of patients who underwent radical resection for BTC,excluding intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma,were retrospectively reviewed.The associations between TMPRSS4 expression and clinicopathological factors,overall survival,and recurrence-free survival were analyzed.RESULTS Among the 85 patients undergoing radical resection for BTC,46(54%)were TMPRSS4-positive.The TMPRSS4-positive group exhibited significantly higher preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9(CA19-9)values and greater lymphatic invasion than the TMPRSS4-negative group(P=0.019 and 0.039,respectively).Postoperative overall survival and recurrence-free survival were significantly worse in the TMPRSS4-positive group(median survival time:25.3 months vs not reached,P<0.001;median survival time:28.7 months vs not reached,P=0.043,respectively).Multivariate overall survival analysis indicated TMPRSS4 positivity,pT3/T4,and resection status R1 were independently associated with poor prognosis(P=0.032,0.035 and 0.030,respectively).TMPRSS4 positivity correlated with preoperative CA19-9 values≥37 U/mL and pathological tumor size≥30 mm(P=0.016 and 0.038,respectively).CONCLUSION TMPRSS4 is a potential prognostic biomarker of radical resection for BTC.展开更多
The gastrointestinal barrier is-with approximately 400 m^2-the human body's largest surface separating the external environment from the internal milieu. This barrier serves a dual function: permitting the absorpt...The gastrointestinal barrier is-with approximately 400 m^2-the human body's largest surface separating the external environment from the internal milieu. This barrier serves a dual function: permitting the absorption of nutrients, water and electrolytes on the one hand, while limiting host contact with noxious luminal antigens on the other hand. To maintain this selective barrier, junction protein complexes seal the intercellular space between adjacent epithelial cells and regulate the paracellular transport. Increased intestinal permeability is associated with and suggested as a player in the pathophysiology of various gastrointestinal and extraintestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease and type 1 diabetes. The gastrointestinal tract is exposed to high levels of endogenous and exogenous proteases, both in the lumen and in the mucosa. There is increasing evidence to suggest that a dysregulation of the protease/antiprotease balance in the gut contributes to epithelial damage and increased permeability. Excessive proteolysis leads to direct cleavage of intercellular junction proteins, or to opening of the junction proteins via activation of protease activated receptors. In addition, proteases regulate the activity and availability of cytokines and growth factors, which are also known modulators of intestinal permeability. This review aims at outlining the mechanisms by which proteases alter the intestinal permeability. More knowledge on the role of proteases in mucosal homeostasis and gastrointestinal barrier function will definitely contribute to the identification of new therapeutic targets for permeability-related diseases.展开更多
Protease-producing bacteria and their extracellular proteases are key players in degrading organic nitrogen to drive marine nitrogen cycling and yet knowledge on both of them is still very limited. This study screened...Protease-producing bacteria and their extracellular proteases are key players in degrading organic nitrogen to drive marine nitrogen cycling and yet knowledge on both of them is still very limited. This study screened protease-producing bacteria from the South China Sea sediments and analyzed the diversity of their extracellular proteases at the family level through N-terminal amino acid sequencing. Results of the 16 S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that all screened protease-producing bacteria belonged to the class Gammaproteobacteria and most of them were affiliated with different genera within the orders Alteromonadales and Vibrionales. The Nterminal amino acid sequence analysis for fourteen extracellular proteases from fourteen screened bacterial strains revealed that all these proteases belonged to the M4 family of metalloproteases or the S8 family of serine proteases. This study presents new details on taxa of marine sedimentary protease-producing bacteria and types of their extracellular proteases, which will help to comprehensively understand the process and mechanism of the microbial enzymatic degradation of marine sedimentary organic nitrogen.展开更多
Snake venoms,especially those from the two subfamilies,Crotalinae and Viperinae,contained a lot of serine proteases. They were responsible for the hemorrhage,shock,or disorder of blood coagulation after envenomation. ...Snake venoms,especially those from the two subfamilies,Crotalinae and Viperinae,contained a lot of serine proteases. They were responsible for the hemorrhage,shock,or disorder of blood coagulation after envenomation. They acted,by activating,inactivating,or other converting effects,on almost all the components of hemostatic and fibrinolytic systems. Their sequences were homologous to trypsin-kallikrein serine proteases. Variation of primary sequences out of active center results in the difference of substrate specificities and the further difference of biological and pharmacological activities. Because of their common and unique properties compared to their physiological corresponding factors,snake venom proteases are proved to be an excellent model for the study of protease substrate discriminating mechanism. Furthermore,they have found an important position both in basic research and application of hemostasis and thrombosis in clinic.展开更多
[Objective] The study aimed to investigate the activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases in tobacco leaves growing under different light qualities. [Method] By covering tobacco plants with white, red, yel...[Objective] The study aimed to investigate the activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases in tobacco leaves growing under different light qualities. [Method] By covering tobacco plants with white, red, yellow, blue and purple films to obtain different light quality, the changes of chlorophyll content, activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases in the tobacco leaves were studied. [Results] Compared with treatments of white, red and yellow film, blue and purple films delayed the decrease of chlorophyll content and senescence of tobacco leaves at the late growth stage, and relatively lowered the activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases during growth, development and senescence periods. [Conclusion] Different light qualities exhibited various effects on the growth, development and senescence of tobacco leaves, possibly by affecting the activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases to some extent.展开更多
Proteases, enzymes catalyzing the hydrolysis of peptide bonds, are present at high concentrations in the gastrointestinal tract. Besides their well-known role in the digestive process, they also function as signaling ...Proteases, enzymes catalyzing the hydrolysis of peptide bonds, are present at high concentrations in the gastrointestinal tract. Besides their well-known role in the digestive process, they also function as signaling molecules through the activation of protease-activated receptors(PARs). Based on their chemical mechanism for catalysis, proteases can be classified into several classes: serine, cysteine, aspartic, metallo- and threonine proteases represent the mammalian protease families. In particular, the class of serine proteases will play a significant role in this review. In the last decades, proteases have been suggested to play a key role in the pathogenesis of visceral hypersensitivity, which is a major factor contributing to abdominal pain in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases and/or irritable bowel syndrome. So far, only a few preclinical animal studies have investigated the effect of protease inhibitors specifically on visceral sensitivity while their effect on inflammation is described in more detail. In our accompanying review we describe their effect on gastrointestinal permeability. On account of their promising results in the field of visceral hypersensitivity, further research is warranted. The aim of this review is to give an overview on the concept of visceral hypersensitivity as well as on the physiological and pathophysiological functions of proteases herein.展开更多
[Objective] The aim of the study is to construct cDNA library of midgut tissue of wild silkworm and isolate the serine protease gene. [Method] The midgut tissue-specific cDNA library of wild silkworm was constructed v...[Objective] The aim of the study is to construct cDNA library of midgut tissue of wild silkworm and isolate the serine protease gene. [Method] The midgut tissue-specific cDNA library of wild silkworm was constructed via cDNA Library Construction Kit (TaKaRa), then the serine protease gene was cloned via sequencing of the yielded cDNA library. [Result] The titer of cDNA library reached 6.2×105 pfu/ml, average insert size was about 1.2 kb. The serine protease gene cDNA fragment was obtained from colony sequencing (Accession No: EU672968). The nucleotide sequence of the cloned 854 bp fragment encodes 284 amino acid residues. Homology analyses showed some homology between putative amino acid sequence of the cloned fragment and amino acid sequences of serine proteases from other ten insects. [Conclusion] The results may avail to reveal the resistance of silkworm and wild silkworm to exotic intrusion.展开更多
文摘Proteases,with their extensive sources and remarkable characteristics such as high catalytic efficiency,substrate specificity,and species diversity,have long attracted widespread attention and are widely applied in various fields including food processing,detergent production,pharmaceutical,and environmental protection;these enzymes can hydrolyze proteins into peptides and amino acids,thereby participating in crucial physiological activities like digestion and immune regulation,and playing an indispensable role in maintaining the health and daily life of organisms.Moreover,through artificial synthesis of the required proteases,it is possible to achieve efficient large-scale expression and production,which significantly reduces industrial costs,making them more economically viable in practical applications.This paper provides a comprehensive review of proteases,covering their classification,sources,structure-activity relationships,and industrial applications,and constructs a closed-loop analytical framework based on“basic characteristics,production technology,and practical application”to systematically organize and analyze the relevant information;in particular,it quantitatively compares the advantages and defects of expression systems using Escherichia coli,yeast,and Bacillus subtilis,which not only deepens the understanding of these systems but also provides valuable theoretical support for the rational selection of expression vectors in different scenarios,and introduces their development prospects in food,medicine,environmental protection,and related fields.The insights provided herein offer specific directions for future applied research on artificially engineered proteases.
基金supported by grants from the Dongguan Science and Technology of Social Development Program(No.20231800940192)the Talent Development Foundation of the First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University(No.PU2023002).
文摘Objective:Small cell lung cancer(SCLC)is commonly recognized as the most fatal lung cancer type.Despite substantial advances in immune checkpoint blockade therapies for treating solid cancers,their benefits are limited to a minority of patients with SCLC.In the present study,novel indicators for predicting the outcomes and molecular targets for SCLC treatment were elucidated.Methods:We conducted bioinformatics analysis to identify the key genes associated with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in SCLC.The functional role of the key gene identified in SCLC was determined both in vitro and in vivo.Results:A significant correlation was observed between patient survival and CD56dim natural killer(NK)cell proportion.Furthermore,we noted that the hub gene ubiquitin-specific protease 1(USP1)is closely correlated with both CD56dim NK cells and overall survival in SCLC.Bioinformatics analysis revealed that USP1 is upregulated in SCLC.In addition,gene set enrichment analysis revealed that USP1 overexpression hinders NK cell-mediated immune responses.By co-cultivating NK-92 cells with SCLC cells,we demonstrated that NK cell cytotoxicity against SCLC could be improved either via USP1 knock-down or pharmacological inhibition.Furthermore,using a nude-mice xenograft tumor model,we noted that USP1 inhibition effectively suppressed tumor proliferation and increased the expression of NK cell-associated markers.Conclusions:Our study findings highlight the importance of NK cells in regulating SCLC.USP1 overexpression can inhibit NK cell-mediated immunity;therefore,USP1 may serve not only as a prognostic biomarker but also as a potential molecular target of SCLC therapy.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(grant no.82370015).
文摘The 3CL protease, a highly conserved enzyme in the coronavirus, plays a crucial role in the viral life cycle by facilitating viral replication through precise cleavage of polyproteins. Beyond its proteolytic function, the 3CL protease also engages in intricate interactions with host cell proteins involved in critical cellular processes such as transcription, translation, and nuclear-cytoplasmic transport, effectively hijacking cellular machinery to promote viral replication. Additionally, it disrupts innate immune signaling pathways, suppresses interferon activity and cleaves antiviral proteins. Furthermore, it modulates host cell death pathways including pyroptosis and apoptosis, interferes with autophagy and inhibits stress granule formation to maintain viral infection and exacerbate viral pathogenesis. This review highlights the molecular mechanisms by which the 3CL protease orchestrates virus-host interactions, emphasizing its central role in coronavirus pathogenesis and highlighting potential therapeutic targets for future interventions.
基金supported by the Ten-thousand Talents Plan of Zhejiang Province(No.2022R52021)the Key Research and Development Program of Zhejiang Province(No.2021C04016)the Pioneer and Leading Goose R&D Program of Zhejiang(No.2022C04020),China.
文摘Soybean meal(SBM)prepared by soybean crushing is the most popular protein source in the poultry and livestock industries(Cai et al.,2015)due to its economic manufacture,high protein content,and good nutritional value.Despite these benefits,SBM contains various antigen proteins such as glycinin andβ-conglycinin,which account for approximately 70%of the total proteins of the SBM and reduce digestibility and damage intestinal function(Peng et al.,2018).
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFD1800303)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32473044).
文摘Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED), caused by porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), is a highly contagious gastrointestinal disease characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, with mortality rates approaching 100% among suckling piglets. The PEDV 3C-like protease (3CLpro) is essential for viral replication and regarded as a critical target for antiviral inhibitor development. In this study, we aimed to identify small-molecule inhibitors of PEDV by targeting 3CLpro. Virtual screening of 1.6 million compounds from the ChemDiv library identified four potential candidates. Molecular dynamics simulations, specifically analyzing RMSD, RMSF, and Rg, demonstrated increased structural stability of the compound-protease complexes compared to the monomeric enzyme. All compounds had low cytotoxicity in Vero cells (CC_(50) > 200 μM). Fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based assays demonstrated dose-dependent inhibitory activity of the compounds against 3CLpro. Among the candidates, compound F366-0161 exhibited the weakest inhibition, with an IC_(50) value of 151.5 μM. Two analogues, 3238-0395 (IC_(50) of 121.4 μM) and L878-0493 (IC_(50) of 123.6 μM), exhibited moderately enhanced activity. Y041-1672 was identified as the most effective inhibitor, with an IC_(50) of 86.48 μM. In viral replication inhibition assays, Y041-1672 reduced PEDV replication, with an EC_(50) of 17.97 μM and a selectivity index (SI) of 15.5 (CC_(50) /EC_(50) ). These results were validated by RT-qPCR, plaque assays, immunofluorescence, and Western blot analyses. In vitro validation confirmed Y041-1672 as the optimal antiviral candidate, and time-of-addition experiments indicated that inhibition primarily occurred during viral replication. This study identifies scaffold molecules for PEDV antiviral drug development, providing strategic insights for PED treatment.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.82130101)the Youth Innovation Promotion Association of CAS(Grant No.2021333).
文摘Dengue viruses(DENV)have spread throughout the world and pose a huge threat to human life.The most widespread serotype is type 2 DENV(DENV 2),which has no specific treatment.NS2B-NS3 protease plays a pivotal role in DENV replication because of its function in cleavage of the viral polyprotein;thus,it is considered a promising target for antiviral discovery.In this study,we developed a high-throughput screening system based on the NS2B-NS3 protease to identify candidates from an FDA-approved drug library.Eltrombopag was screened out of 3273 drugs,and demonstrated inhibition on DENV 2 at the micromolar level in vitro,significantly reducing viral loads in the targeted organs of challenged mice following intraperitoneal injection.Further mechanistic analysis showed that eltrombopag allosterically binds to the DENV 2 NS2B-NS3 protease in a reversible,noncompetitive manner,therefore inhibiting DENV 2 at the post-infection stage.In addition,eltrombopag inhibited the NS2B-NS3 proteases of DENV 4 and Zika virus,suggesting its potential as a broadspectrum antiviral agent.This study repurposed eltrombopag as a promising antiviral agent against DENV,providing an alternative for antiviral development against flaviviruses.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82370015).
文摘Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),the causative agent of novel coronavirus disease 2019,can cause acute respiratory symptoms and even death globally.However,the immune escape mechanism and viral pathogenesis remain poorly understood.Here,we report that the SARS-CoV-23C-like(3CL)protease specifically cleaves gasdermin D(GSDMD)at Q29 and Q193,producing two N-terminal fragments,GSDMD1-29 and GSDMD1-193.We also found that SARS-CoV-2 infection induced the cleavage of GSDMD.Then,we demonstrated that the ability to cleave GSDMD was dependent on the protease activity of the 3CL protease.Interestingly,unlike the GSDMD1-275 fragment cleaved by caspase-1,GSDMD1-29 and GSDMD1-193 did not trigger pyroptosis or inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication.Additionally,various RNA viral proteases display different preferences for cleaving GSDMD at Q29 and Q193.Our findings reveal a mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 and other RNA viruses inhibit pyroptosis,highlighting the critical role of the 3CL protease in immune evasion and viral replication.
基金Supported by Colegio de Ciencia y Tecnologia de la Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México,No.UACM-CCyT-2025-CON-11.
文摘Proteases are essential for homeostasis,and their primary function is proteolytic in extracellular and intracellular compartments.The deregulation of expression,abundance,and activity of proteases has been related to several pathologies,including cancer.This deregulation contributes to their pro-tumorigenic activity since they participate in the degradation of extracellular matrix components and adhesion molecules,and the activation of growth factors.However,some proteases,such as ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 8 and kallikrein-related peptidases 5 and 10,have emerged as tumor suppressors due to their antitumoral actions in specific cancer contexts.In this article,we discuss the antitumoral effects of ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 8,kallikrein-related peptidases 5 and 10 that have been described to date,suggesting their potential use as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82172247 and 81971920 to WZ,82072278 to ZZ,and 82202493 to LL,82302502 to Yao Wang)Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province of China(YQ2023H003)+1 种基金China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2021M693818)Heilongjiang Postdoctoral Fund,Heilongjiang Province of China(LBH-Z21023).
文摘Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the cardiac muscle and one of the primary causes of dilated cardiomyopathy.Group B coxsackievirus(CVB)is one of the leading causative pathogens of viral myocarditis,which primarily affects children and young adults.Due to the lack of vaccines,the development of antiviral medicines is crucial to controlling CVB infection and the progression of myocarditis.In this study,we investigated the antiviral effect of baicalein,a flavonoid extracted from Scutellaria baicaleinsis.Our results demonstrated that baicalein treatment significantly reduced cytopathic effect and increased cell viability in CVB3-infected cells.In addition,significant reductions in viral protein 3D,viral RNA,and viral particles were observed in CVB3-infected cells treated with baicalein.We found that baicalein exerted its inhibitory effect in the early stages of CVB3 infection.Baicalein also suppressed viral replication in the myocardium and effectively alleviated myocarditis induced by CVB3 infection.Our study revealed that baicalein exerts its antiviral effect by inhibiting the activity of caspase-1 and viral protease 2A.Taken together,our findings demonstrate that baicalein has antiviral activity against CVB3 infection and may serve as a potential therapeutic option for the myocarditis caused by enterovirus infection.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32001728,32172248)the Taishan Industrial Experts Program+1 种基金the Guizhou High-level Innovative Talent Training Project(Qianke Cooperation Platform Talent number[2016]5662)Guizhou Science and Technology Innovation Talent Team of Ecological Characteristic Meat Products.(QKHPTRC[2020]5004)。
文摘Dry-cured meat products are considerably popular around the world due to unique flavor.Proteolysis is one of the enzymatic reactions from which flavor substances are derived,which is affected by endogenous proteases.The purpose aimed to reveal the potential relationship between endogenous proteases and key flavor substances in dry-cured pork coppa in this paper.The dynamic changes of endogenous proteases activity,free amino acids,and volatiles during dry-cured pork coppa processing were characterized.The results showed that 5 kinds of free amino acids,Glu,Lys,Val,Ala,and Leu,were identified as significant contributors to taste.Meanwhile,key volatiles,such as hexanal,nonanal,octanal,benzaldehyde,3-methyl butanoic acid,2-methyl propanoic acid,and ethyl octanoate,greatly contributed to the flavor characteristics of dry-cured pork coppa.Further partial correlation analysis was performed to better elucidate the relationship among parameters.The results revealed that close relationship between endogenous proteases and key substances.RAP not only significantly affected the accumulation of key active-amino acids,but also affected the accumulation of ethyl octanoate,2,3-pentanedione,and 2,3-octanedione by regulating the accumulation of octanoic acid and Leu.In addition,cathepsin B and D,DPP II,DPP IV and RAP notably affected accumulation of hexanal.
基金Anhui Provincial Health Research Project,No.AHWJ2022c036.
文摘BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is one very usual tumor together with higher death rate.Ubiquitin-specific protease 21(USP21)has been confirmed to take part into the regulation of CRC progression through serving as a facilitator.Interestingly,the promotive function of USP21 has also discovered in the progression of CRC.ZEB1 has illustrated to be modulated by USP7,USP22 and USP51 in cancers.However,the regulatory functions of USP21 on ZEB1 in CRC progression need more invest-igations.AIM To investigate the relationship between USP21 and ZEB1 in CRC progression.METHODS The mRNA and protein expressions were assessed through RT-qPCR,western blot and IHC assay.The interaction between USP21 and ZEB1 was evaluated through Co-IP and GST pull down assays.The cell proliferation was detected through colony formation assay.The cell migration and invasion abilities were determined through Transwell assay.The stemness was tested through sphere formation assay.The tumor growth was evaluated through in vivo mice assay.RESULTS In this work,USP21 and ZEB1 exhibited higher expression in CRC,and resulted into poor prognosis.Moreover,the interaction between USP21 and ZEB1 was further investigated.It was demonstrated that USP21 contributed to the stability of ZEB1 through modulating ubiquitination level.In addition,USP21 streng-thened cell proliferation,migration and stemness through regulating ZEB1.At last,through in vivo assays,it was illustrated that USP21/ZEB1 axis aggravated tumor growth.CONCLUSION For the first time,these above findings manifested that USP21 promoted tumorigenicity and stemness of CRC by deubiquitinating and stabilizing ZEB1.This discovery suggested that USP21/ZEB1 axis may provide novel sights for the treatment of CRC.
基金supported by the Major Special Projects for Green Pest Control,China(110202101028(LS-03),201938,110202201017(LS-01)and 110202001035(LS04))the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31901893)the Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(ASTIP-TRIC04)。
文摘Understanding interactions between viruses and their hosts is conducive to enabling better application of viruses as biocontrol agents.Certain viruses carried by parasitic wasps enhance the parasitic efficiency of wasp-larvae by protecting them against the immune system of their Lepidopteran host.However,the relationship between prey pests and viruses found in predatory natural enemies remains unclear.Herein,we report the interaction between Arma chinensis virus-1(AcV-1),originally isolated from a predatory natural enemy,Arma chinensis(Hemiptera:Pentatomidae),and one of its prey species,Spodoptera frugiperda(Lepidoptera:Noctuidae).The results showed that the AcV-1 virus appeared harmful to the novel host S.frugiperda by inhibiting larval diet consumption and increasing pupal mortality.Meanwhile,sequencing data indicated that the virus altered the gene expression profiles of S.frugiperda.KEGG analysis showed that the proteasome and phagosome pathways related to protein degradation and immune response were significantly enriched.Although the expression levels of digestive enzyme genes did not change significantly,the total protease activity of AcV-1 virus-positive individuals was significantly decreased,suggesting that the virus inhibited diet consumption of S.frugiperda via the down-regulation of digestive enzyme activities.These results indicate that a virus initially isolated in a predatory natural enemy can decrease the fitness of its prey species.The virus was found to impact the host proteasome and phagosome pathways related to protein degradation and immunity,providing a potential mechanism to enhance controlling efficiency.
基金National Institutes of Health(NIH)(grants R01 A/130092 and Al161085).
文摘The spike protein(S)of SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for viral attachment and entry,thus a major factor for host suscep-tibility,tissue tropism,virulence and pathogenicity.The S is divided with S1 and S2 region,and the S1 contains the receptor-binding domain(RBD),while the S2 contains the hydrophobic fusion domain for the entry into the host cell.Numerous host proteases have been implicated in the activation of SARS-CoV-2 S through various c leavage sites.In this article,we review host proteases including furin,trypsin,transmembrane protease serine 2(TMPRSS2)and cathepsins in the activation of SARS-CoV-2 S.Many betacoronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2 have polybasic residues at the S1/S2 site which is subjected to the cleavage by furin.The S1/S2 cleavage facilitates more assessable RBD to the receptor ACE2,and the binding triggers further conformational changes and exposure of the S2'site to proteases such as type Il transmembrane serine proteases(TTPRs)including TMPRSS2.In the presence of TMPRSS2 on the target cells,SARS-CoV-2 can utilize a direct entry route by fusion of the viral envelope to the cellular membrane.In the absence of TMPRSS2,SARS-CoV-2 enter target cells via endosomes where multiple cathepsins cleave the S for the successful entry.Additional host proteases involved in the cleavage of the S were discussed.This article also includes roles of 3C-like protease inhibitors which have inhibitory activity against cathepsin L in the entry of SARS-CoV-2,and discussed the dual roles of such inhibitors in virus replication.
文摘BACKGROUND Recent advancements in biliary tract cancer(BTC)treatment have expanded beyond surgery to include adjuvant therapy,yet the prognosis remains poor.Identifying prognostic biomarkers could enhance the assessment of patients who have undergone radical resection for BTC.AIM To determine transmembrane serine protease 4(TMPRSS4)utility as a prognostic biomarker of radical resection for BTC.METHODS Medical records of patients who underwent radical resection for BTC,excluding intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma,were retrospectively reviewed.The associations between TMPRSS4 expression and clinicopathological factors,overall survival,and recurrence-free survival were analyzed.RESULTS Among the 85 patients undergoing radical resection for BTC,46(54%)were TMPRSS4-positive.The TMPRSS4-positive group exhibited significantly higher preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9(CA19-9)values and greater lymphatic invasion than the TMPRSS4-negative group(P=0.019 and 0.039,respectively).Postoperative overall survival and recurrence-free survival were significantly worse in the TMPRSS4-positive group(median survival time:25.3 months vs not reached,P<0.001;median survival time:28.7 months vs not reached,P=0.043,respectively).Multivariate overall survival analysis indicated TMPRSS4 positivity,pT3/T4,and resection status R1 were independently associated with poor prognosis(P=0.032,0.035 and 0.030,respectively).TMPRSS4 positivity correlated with preoperative CA19-9 values≥37 U/mL and pathological tumor size≥30 mm(P=0.016 and 0.038,respectively).CONCLUSION TMPRSS4 is a potential prognostic biomarker of radical resection for BTC.
文摘The gastrointestinal barrier is-with approximately 400 m^2-the human body's largest surface separating the external environment from the internal milieu. This barrier serves a dual function: permitting the absorption of nutrients, water and electrolytes on the one hand, while limiting host contact with noxious luminal antigens on the other hand. To maintain this selective barrier, junction protein complexes seal the intercellular space between adjacent epithelial cells and regulate the paracellular transport. Increased intestinal permeability is associated with and suggested as a player in the pathophysiology of various gastrointestinal and extraintestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease and type 1 diabetes. The gastrointestinal tract is exposed to high levels of endogenous and exogenous proteases, both in the lumen and in the mucosa. There is increasing evidence to suggest that a dysregulation of the protease/antiprotease balance in the gut contributes to epithelial damage and increased permeability. Excessive proteolysis leads to direct cleavage of intercellular junction proteins, or to opening of the junction proteins via activation of protease activated receptors. In addition, proteases regulate the activity and availability of cytokines and growth factors, which are also known modulators of intestinal permeability. This review aims at outlining the mechanisms by which proteases alter the intestinal permeability. More knowledge on the role of proteases in mucosal homeostasis and gastrointestinal barrier function will definitely contribute to the identification of new therapeutic targets for permeability-related diseases.
基金The AoShan Talents Cultivation Program supported by Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology under contract No.2017ASTCP-OS14the National Natural Science Foundation of China under contract Nos 31670063,31670497 and 31870052+1 种基金the Taishan Scholars Program of Shandong Province under contract No.2009TS079the Science and Technology Basic Resources Investigation Program of China under contract No.2017FY100804
文摘Protease-producing bacteria and their extracellular proteases are key players in degrading organic nitrogen to drive marine nitrogen cycling and yet knowledge on both of them is still very limited. This study screened protease-producing bacteria from the South China Sea sediments and analyzed the diversity of their extracellular proteases at the family level through N-terminal amino acid sequencing. Results of the 16 S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that all screened protease-producing bacteria belonged to the class Gammaproteobacteria and most of them were affiliated with different genera within the orders Alteromonadales and Vibrionales. The Nterminal amino acid sequence analysis for fourteen extracellular proteases from fourteen screened bacterial strains revealed that all these proteases belonged to the M4 family of metalloproteases or the S8 family of serine proteases. This study presents new details on taxa of marine sedimentary protease-producing bacteria and types of their extracellular proteases, which will help to comprehensively understand the process and mechanism of the microbial enzymatic degradation of marine sedimentary organic nitrogen.
文摘Snake venoms,especially those from the two subfamilies,Crotalinae and Viperinae,contained a lot of serine proteases. They were responsible for the hemorrhage,shock,or disorder of blood coagulation after envenomation. They acted,by activating,inactivating,or other converting effects,on almost all the components of hemostatic and fibrinolytic systems. Their sequences were homologous to trypsin-kallikrein serine proteases. Variation of primary sequences out of active center results in the difference of substrate specificities and the further difference of biological and pharmacological activities. Because of their common and unique properties compared to their physiological corresponding factors,snake venom proteases are proved to be an excellent model for the study of protease substrate discriminating mechanism. Furthermore,they have found an important position both in basic research and application of hemostasis and thrombosis in clinic.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(30460016)Science and Technology Plan from Yunnan Branch Office of China National Tobacco Corporation(2011YN03,2010YN03,07A01)~~
文摘[Objective] The study aimed to investigate the activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases in tobacco leaves growing under different light qualities. [Method] By covering tobacco plants with white, red, yellow, blue and purple films to obtain different light quality, the changes of chlorophyll content, activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases in the tobacco leaves were studied. [Results] Compared with treatments of white, red and yellow film, blue and purple films delayed the decrease of chlorophyll content and senescence of tobacco leaves at the late growth stage, and relatively lowered the activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases during growth, development and senescence periods. [Conclusion] Different light qualities exhibited various effects on the growth, development and senescence of tobacco leaves, possibly by affecting the activity and gene expression of caspase-like proteases to some extent.
基金Supported by University Research Fund Doctoral Projects(BOF-DOCPRO),No.DOCPRO4 2014/ID 2964Research Foundation Flanders(FWO),No.G034113N
文摘Proteases, enzymes catalyzing the hydrolysis of peptide bonds, are present at high concentrations in the gastrointestinal tract. Besides their well-known role in the digestive process, they also function as signaling molecules through the activation of protease-activated receptors(PARs). Based on their chemical mechanism for catalysis, proteases can be classified into several classes: serine, cysteine, aspartic, metallo- and threonine proteases represent the mammalian protease families. In particular, the class of serine proteases will play a significant role in this review. In the last decades, proteases have been suggested to play a key role in the pathogenesis of visceral hypersensitivity, which is a major factor contributing to abdominal pain in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases and/or irritable bowel syndrome. So far, only a few preclinical animal studies have investigated the effect of protease inhibitors specifically on visceral sensitivity while their effect on inflammation is described in more detail. In our accompanying review we describe their effect on gastrointestinal permeability. On account of their promising results in the field of visceral hypersensitivity, further research is warranted. The aim of this review is to give an overview on the concept of visceral hypersensitivity as well as on the physiological and pathophysiological functions of proteases herein.
文摘[Objective] The aim of the study is to construct cDNA library of midgut tissue of wild silkworm and isolate the serine protease gene. [Method] The midgut tissue-specific cDNA library of wild silkworm was constructed via cDNA Library Construction Kit (TaKaRa), then the serine protease gene was cloned via sequencing of the yielded cDNA library. [Result] The titer of cDNA library reached 6.2×105 pfu/ml, average insert size was about 1.2 kb. The serine protease gene cDNA fragment was obtained from colony sequencing (Accession No: EU672968). The nucleotide sequence of the cloned 854 bp fragment encodes 284 amino acid residues. Homology analyses showed some homology between putative amino acid sequence of the cloned fragment and amino acid sequences of serine proteases from other ten insects. [Conclusion] The results may avail to reveal the resistance of silkworm and wild silkworm to exotic intrusion.
