Serine Proteases in Bone Disease

Authors: Bouteldja, Nadia; Timson, David J.

Source: Current Rheumatology Reviews, Volume 5, Number 2, May 2009 , pp. 141-147(7)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $62.88 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

Serine proteases are active in many physiological and pathological processes within bone tissue. Although essential to adequate maintenance of bone and cartilage, their inappropriate expression can lead to exacerbation of tissue destruction and inflammation. Their effects are exerted through multiple pathways, including interaction with signalling molecules such as transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), binding to protease-activated receptors (PARs), and direct proteolysis of extracellular matrix proteins, in some cases working synergistically with matrix metalloproteases in the remodelling of bone tissue. The overall effect of these interactions is not yet clear, but there are strong links between some serine proteases and arthropathies, in addition to metastatic bone invasion. Understanding the contribution of each of these enzymes to the molecular disease process is crucial to developing effective treatment based on inhibitors or agonists. Serine protease inhibitors have shown promise in reducing the severity of arthritis, but greater specificity is required to avoid undesired systemic effects.

Keywords: Arthritis; uPA; HtrA1; collagen; inflammation; bone matrix

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/157339709788298400

Publication date: 2009-05-01

More about this publication?

Current Rheumatology Reviews publishes frontier reviews on all the latest advances on rheumatology and its related areas e.g. pharmacology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical care, and therapy. The journal's aim is to publish the highest quality review articles dedicated to clinical research in the field.

The journal is essential reading for all researchers and clinicians in rheumatology.