Structure-function analysis of the ADAM family of disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase-containing proteins (review).

摘要: The ADAMs belong to a disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase-containing protein family that are zinc-dependent metalloproteinases. These proteins share all or some of the following domain structure: a signal peptide, propeptide, metalloproteinase, disintegrin, cysteine-rich, an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains, transmembrane region, cytoplasmic tail. widely distributed in many organs, tissues, cells, such as brain, testis, epididymis, ovary, breast, placenta, liver, heart, lung, bone, muscle. capable four potential functions: proteolysis, adhesion, fusion, intracellular signaling. Because number ADAM genes has grown rapidly biological functions most members unclear, this review analyzes structures functions, their activation processing, known activities, evolutionary relationships. A sequence alignment human is compiled homology physical data calculated. conceivable reproduction, development, diseases also discussed.