Proteases and peptidases in EAE

Abstract

The role of proteases and peptidases in the pathogenesis of EAE has been extensively studied. In particular research has focussed on the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family of enzymes as well the plasminogen activator/plasmin system. These enzymes have been proposed to have a number of functional roles in disease pathogenesis including: breakdown of the blood brain barrier and the extracellular matrix, degradation of the myelin sheath with the generation of further encephalitogenic peptides and amplification of the inflammatory process in the CNS, via activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The administration of proteolytic enzyme inhibitors to animals with EAE resulting in clinical improvement, has provided further support for the MMP/plasminogen activator/plasmin system in the disease process. The involvement of other enzymes including, myelencephalon specific protease, calpain and dipeptidyl petidase IV in EAE pathogenesis is also discussed.