Republished: bacterial proteases in IBD and IBS.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Proteases are crucial in physiological processes and disease.
• Gastrointestinal disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are linked to host proteases (e.g., matrix metalloproteinases, serine proteases, cathepsins).
• The role of bacterial proteases in IBD and IBS pathogenesis has been historically underestimated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the significance of both host- and bacteria-derived proteases in IBD and IBS.
• To highlight the signaling mechanisms involved.
• To underscore the potential contribution of the intestinal microbiota's proteolytic capacity to disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on host- and bacterial proteases.
• Analysis of existing evidence on protease involvement in gastrointestinal diseases.
• Examination of signaling pathways.

Main Results:

• Host proteases are well-established contributors to IBD and IBS pathology.
• Emerging evidence implicates bacterial proteases, from both pathogenic and commensal species, in disease development.
• The intestinal microbiota's proteolytic activity is recognized as a potential factor in IBD and IBS pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Both host and bacterial proteases are relevant to the pathogenesis of IBD and IBS.
• Understanding these proteases and their signaling is crucial for IBD and IBS research.
• The proteolytic activity of the gut microbiota warrants further investigation in the context of gastrointestinal disorders.