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Cathepsin cysteine proteases in cardiovascular disease
Suzanne P M Lutgens1, Kitty B J M Cleutjens, Mat J A P Daemen
1Department of Pathology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Summary
Cathepsin proteases play a key role in cardiovascular diseases by remodeling the extracellular matrix and affecting lipid metabolism. Inhibiting cathepsins shows promise for treating atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Molecular Medicine
Background:
- Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is a key factor in cardiovascular diseases.
- Cathepsin cysteine proteases are crucial in ECM remodeling and implicated in cardiovascular disease progression.
- Cathepsins influence lipid metabolism, contributing to foam cell formation in atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of cathepsins in cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerosis.
- To explore the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of cathepsins in cardiovascular conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on cathepsin expression and function in cardiovascular diseases.
- Analysis of in vivo studies involving cathepsin deficiency.
- Evaluation of cathepsins as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- Cathepsin K and S deficiency reduces atherosclerosis in vivo.
- Cathepsins degrade low-density lipoprotein and impair cholesterol efflux, worsening foam cell formation.
- Serum cathepsins L and S show potential as atherosclerosis biomarkers; cathepsin B as an imaging tool.
- Cathepsin inhibitors are effective for osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, suggesting therapeutic potential for atherosclerosis.
Conclusions:
- Cathepsins are significantly involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis.
- Cathepsin-targeted therapies and diagnostics warrant further investigation for cardiovascular conditions.
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