DPP4
DPP4: A Key Player in Metabolism, Inflammation, and Disease
Introduction
Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4), also known as CD26, is a versatile enzyme that plays a crucial role in various physiological and pathological processes. It is mainly expressed on the surface of immune cells, endothelial cells, and epithelial cells. DPP4 has enzymatic activity that cleaves dipeptides from the N-terminus of proteins and peptides, including incretins like glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Here's an in-depth exploration of DPP4, its functions, associated diseases, and the latest research.
Functions of DPP4
Metabolism:
- Regulates glucose homeostasis by cleaving incretins, which stimulate insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells.
- Involved in gut hormone metabolism, affecting appetite and insulin sensitivity.
Immune Regulation:
- Participates in immune cell activation and migration by cleaving chemokines and cytokines.
- Modulates T cell function and immune responses.
Inflammation:
- Regulates the production and activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, shaping inflammatory responses.
- Impacts the migration and infiltration of immune cells into inflamed tissues.
Associated Diseases
DPP4 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases:
Diabetes:
- DPP4 inhibition improves glycemic control by increasing incretin levels.
- DPP4 inhibitors are widely used as a treatment for type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Disease:
- Elevated DPP4 activity is associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels.
- DPP4 may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular events.
Cancer:
- DPP4 is involved in tumor growth, angiogenesis, and immune evasion.
- DPP4 inhibitors have shown promise as anti-cancer agents in clinical trials.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease:
- DPP4 regulates the function of immune cells in the gut.
- Dysregulation of DPP4 activity may contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases.
Did you Know ?
- 40-60% of people with type 2 diabetes have significantly elevated DPP4 activity. This suggests that DPP4 inhibition could be a potential therapeutic strategy for a large proportion of diabetes patients.
