A disintegrin and metalloproteinase-12 (ADAM12): function, roles in disease progression, and clinical implications.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase-12 (ADAM12) is a member of the greater ADAM family of enzymes: these are multifunctional, generally membrane-bound, zinc proteases for which there are forty genes known (21 of these appearing in humans). ADAM12 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers, liver fibrogenesis, hypertension, and asthma, and its elevation or decrease in human serum has been linked to these and other physiological/pathological conditions.

Scope

In this review, we begin with a brief overview of the ADAM family of enzymes and protein structure. We then discuss the role of ADAM12 in the progression and/or diagnosis of various disease conditions, and we will conclude with an exploration of currently known natural and synthetic inhibitors.<

SUBMITTER: Nyren-Erickson EK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3740046 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature