[Chromogenic and fluorogenic peptide substrates of proteolytic enzymes]

The review describes approaches to designing chromogenic and fluorogenic substrates for proteolytic enzymes, mainly for assay of serine proteinases. Principles of substrate polypeptide chain construction and some methods for detection of chromogenic and fluorogenic products of their hydrolysis are considered. The use of these substrates for the study of blood clotting enzymes and for clinical diagnostics is briefly treated. Methodology of chemical synthesis of principal chromogenic and fluorogenic substrates is also discussed.