Proteases

Definition

Proteases are enzymes that break down proteins by hydrolyzing peptide bonds. They play crucial roles in various biological processes, including infection and pathogenicity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Proteases are utilized by many pathogens to invade host tissues and evade immune responses.
2. In the oral cavity, proteases can degrade host proteins such as collagen and elastin, contributing to dental diseases like periodontitis.
3. Some eukaryotic pathogens secrete proteases as virulence factors to facilitate tissue invasion and nutrient acquisition.
4. Protease inhibitors are often used in therapeutic treatments to prevent microbial infections by blocking the activity of pathogen-derived proteases.
5. The activity of proteases is tightly regulated within organisms to prevent unnecessary tissue damage.

Review Questions

• How do proteases contribute to the pathogenicity of microorganisms?
• What role do proteases play in the development of periodontal diseases?
• Why are protease inhibitors important in treating certain microbial infections?

Related terms

Virulence Factor: A molecule produced by a pathogen that contributes to its ability to cause disease.

Periodontitis:

An inflammatory disease affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth, often caused by bacterial infection.

Protease Inhibitors:

Substances that block the activity of proteases, used in treatment of various infections and diseases.