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Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Monitoring Neutrophil Elastase and Cathepsin G Activity in Human Sputum Samples
Published on: May 21, 2021
Human neutrophil elastase: mediator and therapeutic target in atherosclerosis
Peter A Henriksen1, Jean-Michel Sallenave
1Department of Cardiology, The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Old Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK. p.henriksen@blueyonder.co.uk
Abstract:
Human neutrophil elastase (HNE) is present within atherosclerotic plaques where it contributes to matrix degradation and weakening of the vessel wall associated with the complications of aneurysm formation and plaque rupture. It is joined by other extracellular proteases in these actions but the broad range of substrates and potency of HNE coupled with the potential for rapid increases in HNE activity associated with neutrophil degranulation in acute coronary syndromes single this disruptive protease out as therapeutic target in atherosclerotic disease. This review summarises the role of HNE in neutrophil-mediated endothelial injury and the evidence for HNE as a mediator of atherosclerotic plaque development. The therapeutic potential of HNE neutralising antiproteases, alpha-1-antitrypsin and elafin, in atherosclerosis, is discussed.
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