Prolidase - A protein with many faces

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Human Health

Background:

• Prolidase is a metal-dependent peptidase that cleaves C-terminal proline/hydroxyproline dipeptides.
• Homologues of prolidase exist across all kingdoms of life.
• Genetic defects in prolidase cause Prolidase Deficiency, a rare hereditary syndrome.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of prolidase.
• To highlight its significance in human health and disease, particularly cancer.
• To discuss its emerging applications in biotechnology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on prolidase.
• Analysis of prolidase's enzymatic and non-enzymatic functions.
• Exploration of prolidase's involvement in various biological processes.

Main Results:

• Prolidase plays a critical role in human health, evidenced by Prolidase Deficiency.
• Emerging evidence links prolidase to cancer development, including activity-independent roles in tumorigenesis.
• The enzyme and its engineered variants show promise in biotechnological applications.

Conclusions:

• Prolidase is a protein of increasing scientific and clinical interest.
• Its functions extend beyond enzymatic activity, impacting complex diseases like cancer.
• Further research into prolidase is warranted for therapeutic and biotechnological advancements.