Proteases from Inflammatory Cells: Regulation of Inflammatory Response

Abstract

In this review, we summarize the current data pertaining to proteases mainly from polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) and monocytes
in the regulation of the inflammatory response. However, tryptase and chymase stored in mast cell granules, or granzymes from
lymphocytes are other examples of proteases, which greatly influence several biological processes including extracellular
matrix degradation, vasoconstriction, pathogen clearance, and cell death. A specific emphasis will be given to proteases from
PMN, which are the first cells to be recruited to the inflammatory site. Proteases clearly modulate inflammation through cleavage
of adhesion molecules, receptor implicated in pathogen recognition, phagocytosis, and production of cytokines. These cleavages
can have pro or anti-inflammatory effect. In addition PMN-derived proteases can modulate the apoptosis of PMN and their uptake
by macrophage, two pivotal steps in the resolution of inflammation. Deciphering the molecular mechanism governing the protease-based
immune regulation should lead to novel and timely therapeutic strategies.

KeywordsApoptosis-Chemokine-Cytokine-Inflammation-Macrophage-Neutrophil-Phagocytosis-Protease