[Proteases of neutrophilic granulocytes]

The literature referring to proteolytic enzymes of neutrophilic granulocytes was surveyed. Biosynthesis, subcellular distribution, division according to the catalytic site structure, inhibitors and methods used to determine the activity of these enzymes were discussed. The survey included metaloproteases (granulocytic collagenase, gelatinase B), serine proteases (granulocytic elastase, cathepsin G, protease 3), membraneous proteases (aminopeptidase N, aminopeptidase P, neprilisine), cysteine and aspartic cathepsins. The role of these proteases in the pathology and diagnostics of certain diseases was considered.