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ADAM Metalloproteinases as Potential Drug Targets
Caterina Camodeca1, Doretta Cuffaro1, Elisa Nuti1
1Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, Pisa, Italy.
Current Medicinal Chemistry
|March 29, 2018
Summary
ADAM metalloproteinases (ADAMs) function as sheddases, modulating key proteins involved in immunity and disease. Their roles in inflammation and cancer make them promising drug targets for new therapies.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- ADAMs, ADAMTSs, and SVMPs belong to the Adamalysin family, exhibiting diverse structures and functions.
- Domains within these metalloproteinases are crucial for substrate recognition and protease activity.
- Membrane-bound ADAMs possess sheddase activity, vital for regulating numerous functional proteins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the roles of ADAMs, particularly their sheddase activity.
- To highlight the involvement of ADAMs in physiological and pathological processes.
- To discuss the potential of ADAMs as therapeutic drug targets.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on ADAM metalloproteinases.
- Analysis of structural and functional domains of ADAMs.
- Examination of ADAMs' involvement in biological pathways and diseases.
Main Results:
- ADAM sheddase activity modulates critical proteins like tumor necrosis factor, growth factors, and adhesion molecules.
- These activities are implicated in regulating inflammation, tumor growth, metastasis, and infectious diseases.
- Significant research is exploring ADAMs as drug targets for various medical applications.
Conclusions:
- ADAM metalloproteinases play a central role in biological regulation through their sheddase functions.
- Dysregulation of ADAM activities contributes to significant pathological conditions.
- Targeting ADAMs offers a promising avenue for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
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