γ-Interferon-inducible lysosomal thiol reductase (GILT) maintains phagosomal proteolysis in alternatively activated macrophages

Abstract

Background: GILT is known to reduce disulfide bonds in endosomes, lysosomes, and phagosomes. Results: GILT, in addition to reducing disulfide bonds, maintains phagosomal proteolytic activity, particularly in alternatively activated macrophages. Conclusion: GILT maintains activity of cysteine proteases in phagosomes. Significance: These results reveal a novel role for GILT that may affect antigen processing and efficiency of hydrolysis of phagocytosed protein.