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Biochemical and structural insights into mesotrypsin: an unusual human trypsin
Moh'd A Salameh1, Evette S Radisky
1Department of Bioscience Technology, Gwinnett Technical College Lawrenceville, GA, 30043 USA.
Abstract:
Thirty five years ago mesotrypsin was first isolated from the human pancreas. It was described as a minor trypsin isoform with the remarkable property of near total resistance to biological trypsin inhibitors. Another unusual feature of mesotrypsin was discovered later, when it was found that mesotrypsin has defective affinity toward many protein substrates of other trypsins. As the younger sibling of the two major trypsins secreted by the pancreas, cationic and the anionic trypsin, it has been speculated to represent an evolutionary waste with no apparent function. We know now that mesotrypsin is functionally very different from the other trypsins, with novel substrate specificity that hints at distinct physiological functions. Recently, evidence has begun to emerge implicating mesotrypsin in direct involvement in cancer progression. This review will explore the biochemical characteristics of mesotrypsin and structural insights into its specificity, function, and inhibition.
Insights
Mesotrypsin, a human pancreatic trypsin isoform, shows resistance to inhibitors and unique substrate specificity. Emerging evidence suggests its involvement in cancer progression, prompting further research into its function.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Enzymology
Background:
- Mesotrypsin, a minor human pancreatic trypsin isoform, was identified 35 years ago.
- It exhibits resistance to biological trypsin inhibitors and reduced affinity for common trypsin substrates.
- Initially considered an evolutionary anomaly, recent findings highlight its distinct functional characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biochemical properties and structural insights of mesotrypsin.
- To explore its novel substrate specificity and potential physiological functions.
- To discuss emerging evidence linking mesotrypsin to cancer progression.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of biochemical and structural studies on mesotrypsin.
- Analysis of substrate specificity and inhibitor resistance data.
- Synthesis of recent findings on mesotrypsin's role in cancer.
Main Results:
- Mesotrypsin possesses unique biochemical characteristics differentiating it from other trypsin isoforms.
- Its substrate specificity suggests distinct physiological roles.
- Evidence implicates mesotrypsin in cancer progression.
Conclusions:
- Mesotrypsin is a functionally distinct trypsin isoform with potential roles beyond basic proteolysis.
- Its unique properties and link to cancer warrant further investigation.
- Understanding mesotrypsin's biochemistry and structure is crucial for elucidating its physiological and pathological significance.
