Prolyl Endopeptidase

From Proteopedia

Revision as of 20:05, 25 March 2010

Prolyl endopeptidases (PEPs) are a class of serine proteases which cleave peptide bonds on the c-terminal side of internal proline residues.

Structure

β-Propeller Domain

Catalytic Domain

Domain Interface

Function

PEPs are thought to have a role in the degradation of neuropeptides due to the high concentration of PEPs in the brain and the fact that PEPs have been shown to degrade several neuropeptides(vasopressin, β-endorphin, thyroliberin). The distribution of PEP in the brain has been found to be similar to that of certain receptors of neuropeptides which supports PEPs being involved in the degradation of neuropeptide transmitters.

Binding Mechanism

Catalytic( and β-propeller domains(

Inhibition

Pharmaceutical Possibilities

Both human and microbial PEP have been the focus of research into their viability as therapeutic agents for several diseases. The ability of PEPs to cleave internal proline peptide bonds is of interest in the treatment of Celiac Disease which is caused by a reaction to gluten, a proline rich protein found in wheat and wheat subspecies. CITE BESEDIN PEPs have also been linked to several neurological disorders due to high activity in the brain and proposed role in the degradation of neuropeptides.

Celiac Disease

Celiac Disease(CD) is a genetic disorder marked by diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and villous atrophy due to consuming gluten and other prolamins.

Neurological Disorders

References