Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 19, 2025

A Colorimetric Assay that Specifically Measures Granzyme B Proteolytic Activity: Hydrolysis of Boc-Ala-Ala-Asp-S-Bzl
Published on: November 28, 2014
Modulation of Inflammation by Extracellular Granzyme A
Kim R van Daalen1, Josephine F Reijneveld2, Niels Bovenschen2,3
1Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Extracellular Granzyme A (GrA) plays a key role in inflammation and inflammatory diseases, distinct from its known cell-killing functions. This review explores GrA's presence and mechanisms in inflammatory conditions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Granzyme A (GrA) is traditionally known for its role in cytotoxic cell-mediated apoptosis.
- Emerging evidence suggests GrA also functions extracellularly, influencing inflammatory processes.
- The precise role of extracellular GrA in disease pathogenesis is an active area of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on the presence and function of extracellular Granzyme A in inflammatory diseases.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which extracellular GrA modulates inflammation.
- To consolidate understanding of GrA's dual role in cell death and inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research.
- Analysis of studies investigating Granzyme A in various inflammatory disease models.
- Examination of molecular pathways implicated in extracellular GrA signaling.
Main Results:
- Extracellular Granzyme A is present in several inflammatory conditions, suggesting a role beyond direct cytotoxicity.
- Evidence indicates GrA can augment inflammatory responses through various molecular mechanisms.
- The dual function of GrA, in both cell death and inflammation, is increasingly recognized.
Conclusions:
- Extracellular Granzyme A is a significant modulator of inflammation and inflammatory diseases.
- Understanding GrA's extracellular functions opens new avenues for therapeutic strategies in inflammatory disorders.
- Further research is warranted to fully delineate the complex roles of GrA in immunity and disease.
Related Concept Videos
The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Cells of the Innate Immune Response
Phagocytes
Phagocytes police the peripheral tissues by removing cellular debris and responding to the invasion of foreign substances or pathogens. Many phagocytes attack and remove microorganisms even before lymphocytes detect them. The human body has two general...
Role of Matrix Metalloproteases in Degradation of ECM
Caspases
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Normal cells contain receptors that prevent them from being recognized...

