Mechanisms and Regulation of Membane-Bound and Secreted Proteases, Meprins, Metalloendopeptidases

The focus of research in our laboratory is on the structure, function, and regulation of proteolytic enzymes. We are particularly interested in the function, mechanism of action, regulation of biosynthesis, oligomeric assembly and post-translational processing of secreted and cell surface mammalian metalloproteases called meprins.

Our work in mammals and diabetic mice led to the discovery of meprins, plasma membrane and secreted metalloproteases. Meprins can hydrolyze large proteins, polypeptides such as insulin chains and parathyroid hormone, and small biologically active peptides such as bradykinin and gastrin. Meprins are large metalloproteinases (200,000 - 900,000 Da) that are composed of