The multifunctional or moonlighting protein CD26/DPPIV

Authors: Boonacker E.; Van Noorden C.J.F.

Source: European Journal of Cell Biology, Volume 82, Number 2, February 2003 , pp. 53-73(21)

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Abstract:

CD26/DPPIV can be considered a moonlighting protein because it is a multifunctional protein that exerts its different functions depending on cell type and intra- or extracellular conditions in which it is expressed. In the present review, we summarize all its known functions in relation to physiological and pathophysiological conditions. The protein is a proteolytic enzyme, receptor, costimulatory protein, and is involved in adhesion and apoptosis. The CD26/DPPIV protein plays a major role in immune response. Abnormal expression is found in the case of autoimmune diseases, HIV-related diseases and cancer. Natural substrates for CD26/DPPIV are involved in immunomodulation, psycho/neuronal modulation and physiological processes in general. Therefore, targeting of CD26/DPPIV and especially its proteolytic activity has many therapeutic potentials. On the other hand, there are homologous proteins with overlapping proteolytic activity, which thus may prevent specific modulation of CD26/DPPIV. In conclusion, CD26/DPPIV is a protein present both in various cellular compartments and extracellularly where it exerts different functions and thus is a true moonlighting protein.

Keywords: Signal transduction; immunity; cancer; apoptosis; adhesion; protease; biocomplexity

Language: English

Document Type: Original article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1078/0171-9335-00302

Affiliations: 1: Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Amsterdam/The Netherlands

Publication date: 2003-02-01