Carbonic anhydrases I and II
Claudiu T Supuran1, Clemente Capasso2
1Neurofarba Department, Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Section, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy.
The Enzymes
|July 22, 2026
Summary
Carbonic anhydrase (CA) enzymes, particularly CA II, are crucial for physiological functions and targeted by inhibitors for treating various diseases. Novel CA modulators offer potential for new therapeutic applications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Enzymology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Carbonic anhydrase (CA) isoforms I and II are ubiquitous cytosolic enzymes vital for pH regulation, CO₂ homeostasis, and electrolyte secretion.
- While CA II's physiological roles are well-defined, CA I's function remains less understood.
- Extensive research covers CA genetics, biochemistry, kinetics, and inhibition/activation mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of carbonic anhydrase isoforms I and II.
- To highlight the therapeutic applications of CA II inhibitors in various medical conditions.
- To explore the potential of novel CA modulators, including activators, for future pharmacological use.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on carbonic anhydrases.
- Analysis of established and emerging therapeutic strategies involving CA inhibitors.
- Exploration of preclinical and clinical data for CA-targeted therapies.
Main Results:
- CA II is a key therapeutic target, with inhibitors used for glaucoma, epilepsy, and other conditions.
- Promising preclinical data exists for CA II inhibitors in neuropathic pain, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer.
- CA activators show potential for treating neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.
Conclusions:
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are established therapeutics with expanding applications.
- Novel CA modulators, including activators, represent a promising avenue for future drug development.
- Further research into CA enzymes, inhibitors, and activators can unlock innovative treatments.
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