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Hepsin: a multifunctional transmembrane serine protease in pathobiology
Shuo Li1, Lina Wang2, Shijin Sun2
1Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, OH, USA.
The FEBS Journal
|December 10, 2020
Summary
Hepsin, a liver-expressed serine protease, regulates metabolism and organ function. Its dysregulation is linked to metabolic disorders and hearing loss, highlighting its role in disease.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Hepsin is a type II transmembrane serine protease predominantly expressed in the liver.
- It plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological homeostasis through various metabolic and cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on hepsin biosynthesis, activation, and its diverse functions in pathobiology.
- To highlight hepsin's role in metabolic regulation, organ function, and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on hepsin.
- Analysis of hepsin's molecular mechanisms and physiological roles.
- Examination of hepsin's involvement in disease models.
Main Results:
- Hepsin activates prohepatocyte growth factor, enhancing Met signaling and regulating glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism.
- Hepsin influences adipocyte differentiation, kidney function, and auditory processes.
- Hepsin deficiency in mouse models leads to altered metabolism, impaired kidney function, and hearing loss.
- Elevated hepsin expression is observed in various cancers.
Conclusions:
- Hepsin is a critical regulator of metabolic and organ homeostasis.
- Understanding hepsin's biosynthesis, activation, and function is vital for addressing metabolic diseases, kidney disorders, hearing loss, and cancer.
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