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A Fluorescence-Based Assay of Membrane Potential for High-Throughput Functional Study of Two Endogenous Ion Channels in Two Epithelial Cell Lines
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Carbonic anhydrases as drug targets

Claudiu T Supuran

    Current Pharmaceutical Design
    |March 14, 2008
    PubMed

    Insights

    Carbonic anhydrases (CAs), enzymes discovered in 1933, are surprisingly yielding new insights. Recent research reveals novel catalytic mechanisms, isozymes, and non-vertebrate origins for these metalloenzymes.

    Area of Science:

    • Biochemistry and enzymology
    • Metalloprotein chemistry

    Background:

    • Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) are ancient metalloenzymes catalyzing CO2 hydration.
    • CA inhibitors have been clinically utilized since the 1950s.
    • Despite extensive historical research, CAs remain active areas of investigation.

    Discussion:

    • Recent studies explore novel catalytic and inhibition mechanisms of carbonic anhydrases.
    • The discovery and characterization of new CA isozymes are expanding the known family.
    • Emerging research includes the identification and study of carbonic anhydrases from non-vertebrate sources.

    Key Insights:

    • Unexpectedly, significant new discoveries continue to emerge for carbonic anhydrases.
    • This includes advancements in understanding their catalytic functions and inhibition.
    • New isozymes and non-vertebrate CAs broaden the scope of research.

    Outlook:

    • Continued exploration of CA mechanisms and diversity promises further breakthroughs.
    • Investigating non-vertebrate CAs may unveil novel therapeutic targets.
    • The ancient nature of CAs belies their ongoing relevance in modern scientific discovery.

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